Reforming Judicial Narratives: Supreme Court Initiatives to Combat Bias in Rape Judgments in India

ABSTRACT

The Supreme Court of India has recently released a handbook aimed at promoting the use of gender-sensitive language within the judiciary. This initiative underscores the pervasive cognitive biases that often infiltrate judicial pronouncements, manifesting through terms that perpetuate gender stereotypes and prejudices. Expressions such as "a woman is being ravaged" or labeling a woman as "harlot" or “slut” not only reflect societal biases but also shape the perception of justice and fairness in judicial outcomes. The introduction of this handbook is a commendable step towards acknowledging and addressing these biases, ensuring that language used in courtrooms upholds the principles of equality and dignity. However, the mere existence of such a handbook is also a stark reminder of the deep-seated nature of these biases within the judicial system. To further combat gender bias, continuous training and sensitization programs for judges and legal practitioners are imperative. Additionally, integrating gender studies into legal education, promoting diverse representation in the judiciary, and fostering an environment of introspection and accountability can significantly contribute to a more inclusive and equitable judicial system. The Supreme Courts initiative marks a pivotal move towards a more just and unbiased legal framework, paving the way for substantive change in judicial practices

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