Topics
250 words
Topic

Victim Protection

Victim protection refers to the legal, procedural, and social mechanisms established by the state to safeguard the rights, safety, and dignity of individuals who have suffered harm due to criminal acts, ensuring their participation in the justice process without fear of intimidation or secondary victimization.

Why it matters

  • Ensures the integrity of the criminal justice system by encouraging witness cooperation and truthful testimony.
  • Addresses the power imbalance between the state, the accused, and the victim, shifting the focus from purely retributive justice to restorative justice.
  • Protects vulnerable populations from systemic exploitation and potential retaliation during legal proceedings.

How it is asked

Focus on the shift from 'victim as a mere witness' to 'victim as a rights-holder' in criminal jurisprudence, the role of Victim Compensation Schemes, and the balance between the rights of the accused under Article 21 and the protection of victims.