Nirbhaya Case

A 23-year-old physiotherapy student was subjected to brutal sexual assault and violence aboard a moving private bus in Delhi. She succumbed to her injuries days later.

A 23-year-old student whose name became synonymous with the fight for systemic legal reform.

The investigation was fast-tracked due to intense public scrutiny.

Delhi Police faced immense pressure, leading to rapid arrests and a fast-tracked chargesheet.

The trial court convicted four adult accused, sentencing them to death. The verdict was upheld by the High Court and the Supreme Court.

The case triggered unprecedented nationwide protests, demanding systemic change, faster justice, and safer public spaces for women.

Formed the Justice Verma Committee, which submitted a comprehensive report recommending sweeping reforms in criminal law, police accountability, and political governance.

Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013: Broadened the definition of rape, criminalized acid attacks, stalking, and voyeurism, and introduced stricter penalties.

Conviction rates remain a systemic challenge, and the implementation of safety infrastructure (like the Nirbhaya Fund) has seen delays.

Four adult convicts were executed in 2020; one convict died in custody in 2013; a juvenile convict was released after serving the maximum term.