CONTENT

Healing from Trauma: A Comprehensive

Approach to the care, Rehabilitation, and
Social Integration of Rape Survivors.

INTRODUCTION:
Women are important segment of the society, be it family or the government or any other
sector like medical, education, administration or legal etc. Women are playing increasingly
important roles in every walk of public life. Despite playing such vital role in societal
progress, the women are not getting the respect due to them. Even today, majority of the
country is male dominated and women have to do every act according to men. Violence and
discrimination against women is common place on world. One of the most heinous crimes
against women- is the act of non-consensual coercive sexual intercourse with a woman. It
violates, not only the body and conscience of the victim, but also disturbs the social order. A
victim of rape suffers several problems like, social stigma in addition to psychological
trauma. However till today there is no efficient law to provide a compensation or
rehabilitation of victims of rape in India. Moreover there are several countries which
provide a proper remedy to victims. Rape is the offence which occurred in every country
instead of advanced or backward, the difference is only the ratio. In this paper I will discuss
the women’s movement and major legislative provisions throughout the world towards
compensation and rehabilitation of Rape Victims. As well as the Indian position in the
particular offence.

A Story of Hope
"Amara was only 21 when her world changed forever. The assault left her physically bruised,
emotionally shattered, and socially isolated. But Amara’s story is not just about pain—it’s
about courage, resilience, and a system that helped her reclaim her life."

Stories like Amara’s are tragically common, but they remind us of the urgency to create a
world where survivors of sexual violence are supported, empowered, and reintegrated into
society with dignity. This assignment explores the multifaceted care needed to help
survivors like Amara heal and thrive.

Which term is better to use, victim or survivor?

 Although both terms are appropriate, they serve different needs. The term victim typically
refers to someone who has recently experienced a sexual assault; additionally, this word is
commonly used when discussing a crime or when referencing the criminal justice system.
The term survivor often refers to an individual who is going or has gone through the
recovery process; additionally, this word is used when discussing the short-and long-term
effects of sexual violence. Some people identify as a victim, while others identify as a
survivor. The best way to be respectful is to ask for their preference. This National Sexual
Assault
Kit Initiative Training and Technical Assistance (SAKI TTA) resource explores the use of the
terms victim and survivor within the criminal justice system from the perspective of
practitioners who work with victims-survivors.

What is rape?
Rape is the crime that occurs when a man has sexual intercourse with a woman against her
will or without her consent.
What is the punishment for rape?
The punishment for rape is imprisonment for ten years to life imprisonment, along with a
fine.
When the survivor is below sixteen years, the punishment is imprisonment for twenty years
to imprisonment for the rest of the perpetrator’s life, along with a fine.
If the survivor is below twelve years, the perpetrator can be given the death penalty. The
fine should be just and reasonable to meet the medical expenses and rehabilitation of the
survivor, and is paid to the survivor.
Compensation and Rehabilitation policy of Rape victims in
India:
The right to compensation and rehabilitation of victims of rape is provided, expressly or
impliedly by the constitution itself and various enactments. This context will be discussed
under the following heads. The constitutional provision as to fundamental rights especially
Article 21 could be widely interpreted so as to include rights of the victims of crime including
right to compensation.4 In Delhi Domestic Working Women’s Forum v. Union of India is the
leading case on this point. Further in Chairman, Railway Board v. Chandrima Das5 the
Supreme Court provided compensation to Bangladeshi woman on being gang raped. The
Supreme Court stated: “Rape is a crime not only against the person or a women, it is a
crime against the entire society. It destroys the entire psychology of a woman and pushes
her into deep emotional crisis. Rape is therefore, the most hated crime. It is a crime against
basic human rights and is violation of the most cherished rights namely right to life, which
includes right to live with human dignity contained in article 21”. Further the court stated
that as the right available under article 21 of the constitution was violated, the state was
under constitutional liability to pay compensation to her. Similarly, the constitutional
remedies under article 32 and 226 for violation of fundamental rights are extremely
applicable to the victims of rape6 . The principle of payment of compensation to the victim
of crime was evolved by Hon'ble Supreme Court on the ground that it is duty of the welfare
state to protect the fundamental rights of the citizens not only against the actions of its
agencies but is also responsible for hardships on the victims on the grounds of
humanitarianism and obligation of social welfare, duty to protect its subject, equitable
Justice etc. It is to be noted that compensation by the State for the action of its official was
evolved by the Hon'ble Court against the doctrine of English law: "King can do no Wrong"
and clearly stated in the case of Nilabati Behra v. State of Orissa7 that doctrine of sovereign
immunity is only applicable in the case of tortuous act of government servant and not
where there is violation of fundamental rights and hence in a way stated that in criminal
matters (of course if there is violation of fundamental rights) this doctrine is not applicable.
Further there are some provisions in Directives Principles of State Policy, which can be so
liberally construed that they may cover victims of crime entitling them to right to
compensation. This article provides for policies to be followed by the state to secure
economic justice. Article 40 provides for equal justice inclusive of victims right to
compensation. Article 41 states that the state shall make effective provisions for “securing
public assistance in cases of disablement” and in the case of undeserved want. The term
disablement and undeserved want is sufficient enough to include victims of crime. So, the
state is obliged to provide public assistance to victims by way of monetary compensation
apart from guarantee other rights to them. The Hon’ble Supreme Court in Delhi Domestic
Working Women’s Forum Vs. Union of India and others writ petition (CRL) No.362/93 had
directed the National Commission for Women to evolve a “scheme so as to wipe out the
tears of unfortunate victims of rape’’. The Supreme Court observed that having regard to
the Directive principles contained in the Article 38(1) of the Constitution, it was necessary to
set up Criminal Injuries Compensation Board, as rape victims besides the mental anguish,
frequently incur substantial financial loss and in some cases are too traumatized to continue
in employment. The Court further directed that compensation for victims shall be awarded
by the Court on conviction of the offender and by the Criminal Injuries compensation board
whether or not a conviction has taken place. The Board shall take into account the pain,
suffering and shock as well as loss of earnings due to pregnancy and the expenses of child
birth if this occurs as a result of rape. To give effect to the aforesaid direction of the Hon'ble
Court, the National Commission for women had sent a draft scheme to the Central
Government in 1995. Scheme for Relief and Rehabilitation for Victims of Rape
1. The scheme may be called the “Scheme for relief and Rehabilitation of Victims of Rape,
2005”.
2. The scheme shall apply to the whole of India.
3. It shall come into force on such date as the Central Government may by notification in
Official Gazette, appoint.
4. The scheme shall cover all cases where an application has been filed either by the rape
victim herself or by any person/organisation/ department/ commission claiming on her
behalf;
5. “Rape”, will have the same meaning as defined in section 375 and 376 of the Indian Penal
Code;

Compensation and Rehabilitation policy under Criminal

Laws:
Besides the constitution of India, other enactments also provide for compensation and
rehabilitation to victims. The criminal law has taken care of providing compensation to the
person, who has to suffer due to something wrong against him. Even, the Code of Criminal
Procedure, 1898 recognized the right of victims of crime to receive compensation. But, the
main problem under section 545 that compensation was provided only where a substantive
sentence of fine was imposed and was limited to the amount of fine actually realized. This
lacuna has been removed in the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 where section 357(3)
provides compensation even where the accused in not sentenced to fine.11 Though the
provisions is good, but it has its own limitations as –
1. The section applies only when the accused in convicted.
2. In awarding the compensation, the magistrate has to consider the capacity of the accused
to pay.

Report of Law Commission of India: The 154th law commission report recommended
incorporating a new section 357A in the code to provide for a comprehensive scheme of
payment of compensation for all the victims fairly and adequately by the court.
Consequently, Sec 357A was inserted in the Criminal Procedure Code by the Code of
Criminal Procedure (Amendment) act, 2008.12 On 14th October 2015, the Ministry of Home
Affairs set up a Central Victim Compensation Fund with the following objectives. 1. To
support and supplement the existing compensation scheme notified by states/UT
administration. 2. To reduce disparity in quantum of compensation amount notified by
different states/UT for victims of similar crimes. 3. To encourage states/UTs to effectively
implement the victim compensation scheme notified by them under the provisions of
section 357A of Criminal Procedure Code and continue financial support to victims of
various crimes especially several offence including rape, acid attack, crime against children,
human trafficking etc. This fund is set up with the initial corpus of Rs. 200 crore to be
sanctioned by the Ministry of Finance.

Legal Rights Provided to Rape Survivors:

The Indian legal system grants the following legal rights to the rape victims:
 Right to Zero FIR: The 2012 Nirbhaya gang rape case in Delhi prompted the Justice
Verma Committee to urge its implementation. Anyone with knowledge of a legal
offence can file a First Information Report. Being a victim or eyewitness is not
required. Zero FIRs are registered regardless of where the offence occurred. Police
cannot claim jurisdiction shortage in this case.
o Under section 171(1) of BNSS, the provision of Zero FIR is provided. Section
173(2) grants the victim the entitlement to promptly receive a
complimentary copy of FIR.
o The option to submit information for lodging complaints through electronic
communication (e-FIR) has been implemented. The e-FIR must be taken
within a period of 3 days prior to its inclusion in the official record.
o Section 193 (3) (ii), the police officer shall, within a period of ninety days,
inform the progress of the investigation by any means, including through
electronic communication to the informant or the victim.
 Free Medical Treatment in Hospital: It alludes to free medical treatment at any
public or private hospital, and medical practitioners must report rape victims to the
investigating officer within 7 days, as specified by Section 184(6) of BNSS.
 No Two-finger Test during the Medical Examination: This ruling was given under the
case - Lillu V. State of Haryana (2013). The case held that the two-finger test lacks
scientific validity and infringes upon women's rights to privacy, bodily and emotional
well-being, and dignity.
 Harassment-Free and Time-Bound Police Investigation: A woman police officer or
other officers must record the statement under section 183(6)(a) of BNSS.
o The officer will come at a time decided or that is favourable to the victim. The
primary rationale for this practice is to spare the victim from having to
recount the occurrence during the trial. The statement provided by the victim
 to the magistrate will be considered definitive and will not infringe upon the
victim's privacy.
o If the victim of rape is mentally impaired, an Analyzer Educator Social
Interpretation will be present to comprehend the indicators and
circumstances. The main reason is that the victim does not have to repeat the
incident in the trial court, and the magistrate's statement is finalised, which
does not breach the victim's privacy.
o To protect victims and ensure transparency in investigations, Section
176(1) mandates audio-video recording of victim statements for rape
offenses.
 Trial with Full Dignity, Speed, and Protection: Section 232 of BNSS alludes that
procedures must be completed within 90 days of the Magistrate taking cognizance.
 This period can be extended to 180 days with written justifications. Any application
filed by the accused or victim before the Magistrate will also be sent to the Court of
Session. Further, Section 250 allows the accused 60 days following committal to file
a discharge application to expedite trials in session cases. Section 251 supports this
effort by requiring a 60-day charge framing timeline from the initial hearing. Court
rulings that enhanced fast-trial handling of cases.
o In the State of Kerala V. Rasheed (2019), the Supreme Court mandated that
the court conclude the trial within a period of two months from the day on
which the information was recorded.
o In the case of Mahendra Chawla V. Union of India (2018), the Supreme Court
ruled to maintain the anonymity of the witness. If the witness wants to
remain anonymous in court, they must submit an application to the court.
The court will then provide an alternative name for the witness and ensure
that their true identity remains confidential.
 Right to Compensation: A new provision was under the Central Victim
Compensation (CVCF) Fund scheme. Under this provision, every State Government,
in coordination with the Central Government, shall establish a system to provide
compensation to the victim or his dependents who received loss or injury from the
crime and need rehabilitation. Whenever a recommendation is made by the Court
for compensation, the District Legal Service Authority or the State Legal Service
Authority, as the case may be, shall decide the quantum of compensation to be
awarded to the victim.
o Factors that must be included to gain compensation include mental/physical
harm, loss of education and opportunity, the financial condition of the victim,
conditions of disability if the victim is pregnant and if the victim has
contracted the HIV virus.
 o The final scheme was introduced in May 2018 and was accepted by the
Supreme Court. The court of all the state and union territories to implement
the scheme. Under this arrangement, victims would receive a minimum of 4
lakh Rupees and a maximum of 7 lakh Rupees as compensation. If the court
determines that the granted amount is insufficient, it has the authority to
augment the amount based on the circumstances.
o In Manohar Singh V. State of Rajasthan and others (2015), the Supreme
Court ruled that compensation can be given even if a crime remains
unpunished due to insufficient proof.

Legal Framework: Expanding Legal Rights:

 The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 also known as the "Nirbhaya Act", was
enacted in India following the 2012 Delhi gang rape case. It introduced stricter
penalties for sexual offences, including the death penalty for repeat offenders and
cases resulting in death or permanent injury. The Act expanded definitions of sexual
crimes, criminalised acid attacks, and mandated faster trials and better victim
protection. It also addressed sexual harassment at workplaces and emphasised clear
procedures for handling sexual offenses.
o The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act of 2018 enhanced penalties for sexual
offenses in India, the death penalty for the rape of minors under 12 years and
for gang rapes, and increased the punishment for various sexual offenses.
Reduced the time limit for filing rape complaints to 2 years for minor victims
and six months for adult victims in specific cases. The Act also recommends
the establishment of fast-track courts for swift trials.
 The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is an Indian law
designed to protect children from sexual abuse. It defines various sexual offences,
mandates reporting by adults, and ensures child-friendly legal procedures. The Act
prescribes strict penalties for offenders and emphasises victim protection and
support.

Immediate Care and Protection:

Saving Lives, Restoring Hope as for the rape survivors and their betterment by following
precautions :
a. Medical Assistance: First Steps Toward Healing
- Why It Matters: Immediate medical care can save lives, prevent infections, and preserve
evidence.
- Support in Action:
 - India: The POCSO Act mandates free medical care for child victims of sexual abuse.
- USA: The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) ensures access to forensic exams without
cost.
- Global: WHO’s "Clinical Guidelines for Rape Survivors" focuses on holistic care, including
emergency contraception and post-HIV exposure prophylaxis.

b. Emotional First Aid: Addressing Trauma

- Survivors often face acute shock and despair. Trauma counseling and crisis intervention are
essential to stabilize their mental health.
- Creative Support Models:
- Art therapy and expressive arts programs help survivors articulate emotions they cannot
put into words.
- India’s One-Stop Centers (OSCs) provide emotional, medical, and legal aid in one safe
space.

c. Legal Aid: Seeking Justice

- Survivors deserve justice, but navigating the legal system can be daunting. Legal counselors
must provide non-judgmental support.
-Key Legal Frameworks:
- India: The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 expanded the definition of rape and
ensured harsher penalties.
- South Africa: Specialized Sexual Offences Courts expedite trials and reduce secondary
victimization.
2. Rehabilitation: From Victim to Survivor
a. Mental Health Rehabilitation: Mending Invisible Wounds
- Survivors often suffer from PTSD, depression, or anxiety. Holistic therapy approaches are
crucial:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps survivors reframe negative thoughts.
- Peer Support Groups: A safe space to share stories and foster resilience.
b. Skill Building and Economic Independence:
- Survivors often face societal rejection and financial instability. Vocational training
programs help them regain control of their lives.
- Success Stories:
- India’s Ujjawala Scheme supports survivors of trafficking and sexual abuse with shelter
and skill development.
- NGOs like Prajwala have successfully rehabilitated survivors by training them in tailoring,
handicrafts, and other trades.
c. Safe Shelters: A Place to Rebuild
- Survivors often cannot return home due to stigma or threats. Shelters provide a secure,
nurturing environment.
- Example Initiatives:
- India’s Sakhi Centers offer housing, legal aid, and psychological care.
- Global programs like UN Women Safe Spaces provide counseling, childcare, and
workshops.
3. Social Integration: Breaking Barriers
a. Changing Mindsets: Fighting Stigma
- Survivor stigma often fuels silence and isolation. Awareness campaigns can shift societal
attitudes.
- Creative Campaigns:
- India’s #MeToo movement empowered thousands of survivors to share their stories.
- UN’s HeForShe initiative engages men as allies in dismantling rape culture.
b. Support Networks: Empowering Survivors
- Survivor-led organizations like Survivor Corps provide platforms for sharing experiences,
legal advocacy, and emotional healing.
c. Empowerment Through Leadership
- Survivors like Amara can become changemakers, advocating for justice and inspiring
others. Other example like: Mukhtar Mai from Pakistan, a gang-rape survivor, became an
advocate for women's rights, establishing schools and shelters.
4. The Role of Stakeholders: A Shared Responsibility
*Government: Leading with Policies
- India: Fast-track courts for rape cases expedite trials.
- USA: The reauthorized VAWA (2022) increased funding for support services.
- Global Commitment: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5) aim to achieve gender
equality and end violence against women.
*NGOs: Bridging the Gaps
- Organizations like RAINN in the USA and Shakti Vahini in India play critical roles in
counseling, legal aid, and advocacy.
*Community and Society: Changing Narratives
- Community-based programs promote awareness and foster empathy. Media campaigns
should highlight survivor stories that focus on resilience, not victimhood.

Legal Framework: Expanding Legal Rights:

 The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 also known as the "Nirbhaya Act", was
enacted in India following the 2012 Delhi gang rape case. It introduced stricter
penalties for sexual offences, including the death penalty for repeat offenders and
cases resulting in death or permanent injury. The Act expanded definitions of sexual
crimes, criminalised acid attacks, and mandated faster trials and better victim
protection. It also addressed sexual harassment at workplaces and emphasised clear
procedures for handling sexual offenses.
o The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act of 2018 enhanced penalties for sexual
offenses in India, the death penalty for the rape of minors under 12 years and
for gang rapes, and increased the punishment for various sexual offenses.
Reduced the time limit for filing rape complaints to 2 years for minor victims
and six months for adult victims in specific cases. The Act also recommends
the establishment of fast-track courts for swift trials.
 The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is an Indian law
designed to protect children from sexual abuse. It defines various sexual offences,
mandates reporting by adults, and ensures child-friendly legal procedures. The Act
prescribes strict penalties for offenders and emphasises victim protection and
support.

Central Victim Compensation Fund 2015:

After the Nirbhaya incident in 2012, Government of India established Nirbhaya Fund in
2013, with an initial corpus of Rs. 1000 crore. There have been widespread reports of the
non-utilization of the fund Government data also shows that a lot of projects are yet to take
off. In 2015 the government has introduced a Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF)
scheme, with an initial corpus of Rs 200 crores, to enable support to victims of rape, acid
attacks, human trafficking and women killed or injured in the cross border firing. Till now,
there has been an absurd disparity in compensation amount paid by state governments
varying from Rs 10,000 to Rs 10 lakh.21 The compensation part of the rehabilitation of
victims of violence including rape is governed by provision of Section 357A of the Code of
Criminal Procedure which states that every State Government in co-ordination with the
Central Government shall prepare a scheme for providing funds for the purpose of
compensation to the victim of crime. So far 24 states and 7 UTs have formulated the Victim
Compensation Scheme.

The Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018 The Criminal Law

(Amendment) Ordinance, 2018 was promulgated on April 21, 2018. It amends certain laws
related to rape of minors. The amendments are as follows:
Enhanced punishment for rape:
Under IPC, 1860, the offence of rape is punishable with a rigorous imprisonment of at least
seven years up to life imprisonment, along with fine. The minimum imprisonment has been
increased from seven years to ten years.
New offences:
The Ordinance introduces three new offences relate to rape of minors, and increases the
penalty for one:
Below 12 years Rape: Rigorous imprisonment of at least 20 years extendable to life
imprisonment, along with fine to meet medical C, or, death. 2. Gang Rape: Life
imprisonment, along with fine to meet medical expenses and rehabilitation cost of the
victim, or, death.
Below 16 years Rape: Previously, the punishment for rape was ten years extendable to life
imprisonment along with fine. This has been enhanced to a minimum rigorous
imprisonment of at least 20 years, extendable to life imprisonment, along with fine, to meet
medical expenses and rehabilitation cost of victim. 2. Gang Rape: Life imprisonment, along
with fine, to meet medical expenses and rehabilitation cost of victim.

Challenges: Overcoming Roadblocks

Resource Limitations most likely Many countries lack shelters and trained professionals.
Legal Delays which Lengthy trials re-traumatize survivors. Cultural Barriers mostly Victim-
blaming discourages survivors from seeking help. Also some of challenges are as follows:-
1. Social Stigma and Victim-Blaming: Victims often face judgment, blame, and ostracism
from society, discouraging them from seeking help or justice.
2. Lack of Awareness: Many victims and their families are unaware of available legal
rights, compensation schemes, and rehabilitation services.
3. Insufficient Infrastructure: There are limited one-stop crisis centers, shelter homes,
and support systems, especially in rural areas.
4. Delayed Compensation: Victim compensation schemes often suffer from
bureaucratic delays, making it harder for survivors to rebuild their lives.
5. Inadequate Training: Law enforcement, medical professionals, and judicial officers
may lack the sensitivity and training to handle cases without causing further trauma.
6. Judicial Delays: Lengthy trials and low conviction rates in rape cases discourage
victims from pursuing justice.
7. Family and Community Resistance: Families may pressure victims to remain silent or
avoid legal action to “protect family honor,” hindering recovery and justice.
8. Economic Dependence: Many survivors, especially those from marginalized
communities, face challenges in achieving financial independence, impacting their
rehabilitation.
9. Lack of Long-Term Support: Most support services focus on immediate care but fail
to provide long-term psychological and economic assistance.
10. Media Insensitivity: Sensationalized reporting of cases can lead to breaches of
privacy and retraumatization of victims.

Recommendations: Toward a Brighter Future

The need for sociocultural changes
Sociocultural needs are different in modern and traditional societies to some extent.
However, there are some similar needs, including sociocultural support, changing
patriarchal cultural stereotypes, support with no gender discrimination, and social support,
along with sympathy and away from stigma.
A study in Iran showed that the principles of sexual relations in this patriarchal culture
normalize men's control and dominance over women. In such conditions, women survivors
are in dire need of sociocultural support and change of existing cultural stereotypes. These
principles have become so natural, acceptable, and even fit into sexual interactions that
men are often characterized as aggressive and women as unwilling and passive. From this
perspective (women are inferior to men and blamed as crime victims), making violence such
as rape against women possible. Akbari referred to irritating reactions from others in
society as the main reason for self-blame and guilt among survivors. Stigma can affect
survivors' lives significantly as it is psychologically and socially debilitating, reflecting both
social and gender inequality and contributing as a means of social control. Stigma after rape
has been a considerable problem, and many women survivors of rape are rejected by their
husbands, families, or communities. Honor killings are a strong manifestation of external
stigma in regions that consider women's bodies the repositories of family honor, such as
Afghanistan or Palestine. Bach emphasized improving the cultural structure of societies
through education, research, planning, and proper performance in dealing with survivors.
Educational needs
The information needs of women survivors of rape include access to legal information,
information about reporting to the police, physical, psychological, and emotional health
information, self-care and well-being information, seeking to know about available social
and psychological health resources (rape centers, supportive groups, and
counseling/treatment services). According to Brown the basic represented psychological
content areas are police information, legal options, and community resources. Brown
introduced social, health, psychological, and judicial sources of services as the main needs of
women survivors of rape, most of whom had concerns about preventing of STIs and
pregnancy. Many survivors seek information to understand the reasons behind the rape to
shape and integrate their experiences into their identity, education and knowledge can
empower women survivors of rape to take better care of themselves and recover faster.
Emphasized post-rape self-care training, and Basile drew attention to the need to empower
survivors by healthcare providers and reduce post-trauma complications.
The need for legal and judicial protection
Research suggests the current justice system for survivors of rape is inadequate and
neglects their criminal needs, although they need legal and judicial protection regardless of
gender or ethnic issues. The alleged rape victim is perceived primarily as a source of
information to progress inquiries, with her welfare needs taking second place. Most
survivors are stigmatized and regarded as victims in the justice process, leading to
inappropriate interaction and communication with them, which consequently necessitates
respectful treatment while taking into account individual independence. Patterson and
Tringali examined how advocates could affect sexual assault victim engagement in the
criminal justice process and emphasized the need for sympathetic criminal protection with
no blame and stigma. The severe trauma experienced by women survivors of rape
necessitates criminal support according to their needs at different stages and by various
actors in the judicial system, including assistant prosecutors, magistrates, lawyers, and
judges in the office of the public prosecutor, forensics, and the court. Consistent laws should
also be passed to deal with rape because the rights of survivors and justice-oriented
judgment are critical judicial needs. In the meantime, access to a lawyer and advocacy
services is of particular importance. Survivors who benefited from competent advocacy
services are more hopeful and confident in the judicial process of their case.
The needs related to psychological support
Women survivors of rape need to talk with and be heard by friends, freely speak out about
negative feelings and emotions, disclose the incident of rape to their friends, and receive
positive sympathy. Campbell suggested that the overwhelming majority of survivors found
the interview to be a helpful, supportive, and insightful experience and an opportunity to
express their negative feelings, subsequently facilitating their healing process. Ahrens and
Campbell showed that friends of survivors of rape, who were familiar with psychological
models and followed communication principles, could trigger positive changes and
experiences in survivors. Also, a study showed that women survivors of rape needed
sympathy, understanding, and support with no judgment when talking with friends. These
women experience a lack of self-confidence, stress, anxiety, and negative emotions, making
them prone to depression and PTSD, necessitating accessibility to psychological services.
Huemmer stated that survivors did not disclose sexual assault due to negative emotions,
such as self-blame, accountability, anxiety, and stress.[36] Most women survivors of rape are
worried or unable to disclose sexual assault to their husbands and family members,
experiencing an overwhelming communication and behavioral challenge in expressing the
incident and attracting support from the family. Akbari highlighted the negative and
deterrent consequences in the daily lives of survivors, emphasizing their need to establish
effective relationships with their husbands and families through behavioral skills.
Spiritual and religious needs
Paying attention to women's beliefs and values, including an emphasis on spirituality,
worldview, ethics, and cultural values, is one of the coping strategies for stress and
tension. Survivors of rape have various religious needs, such as religious support and
counseling, prayer, worship, and charity according to the value framework and religious
beliefs. Van Wyk concluded that prayer and scripture reading in collaboration with
counseling promoted the healing of survivors. Ahrens suggested that women survivors of
rape require support from religious counselors and clergies. However, in another study,
survivors believed that their healing was promoted when they received religious counseling
from female counselors. Waters stated that religion and spirituality could contribute both as
a valuable resource and an obstacle to healing. Both prayer and meditation embrace
spirituality, silence, and solitude, which lead to peace of mind and improve the mental state
of some survivors. However, extreme beliefs are an obstacle to self-forgiveness in some
survivors, resulting in their constant self-blame and interfering with their recovery. Thus,
counselors should provide advocacy services based on the religious status of survivors and
the religious and spiritual beliefs of counselors. More religious counseling was associated
with higher levels of psychological well-being and lower levels of depression.
Healthcare needs
Women survivors of rape have physical, psychological, reproductive, and sexual needs,
along with the requirements of service delivery structure. Different studies have suggested
access to reproductive and sexual health services, including prompt contraceptive methods
and treatment of STIs, as the basic needs of these women. Women survivors of rape need
integrated and simultaneous sexual and reproductive health services, which should be
provided promptly after the assault. Fehler-Cabral found that most survivors of rape
reported positive experiences with the services provided; however, receiving services with
care and compassion, understanding human needs, and no judgment or blame were among
the expectations of survivors from healthcare providers. Barros stated that the assistance
received in healthcare services leans toward a revictimization process of women who
already carry trauma from the rape. Thus, the most critical needs of women survivors of
rape are confidentiality, prompt provision of health services, empowerment of health
professionals, and respect and sympathy when receiving services. Munro-Kramer suggested
that survivors needed a place to receive complete and comprehensive services, requiring
the least possible commuting and preferably technology-based. Munro also emphasized
that survivors needed comprehensive services, including physical, psychological, and legal
care. Thus, countries must establish integrated centers for women survivors of sexual
violence with support and advocacy approaches

CONCLUSION:
Transforming Pain into Power
Amara’s story is no longer just about pain—it’s about transformation. It reminds us that
survivors are not defined by what happened to them but by the strength they show in
rebuilding their lives. Together, through better care, protection, rehabilitation, and
integration, we can ensure every survivor reclaims their right to a life of dignity and respect.
Various Reports of Law Commission of India as well of Committees on Reforms of Criminal
Justice administration have played a pivotal role in developing compensatory jurisprudence
in India. The Law commission of India in its hitherto submitted Reports on the Indian Penal
Code, 1860 (IPC) and the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 and of 1973 has deliberated
upon the issue of justice to victims of crime and has also suggested some proposals for
reform. The Malimath Committee (2003) on Reforms of Criminal Justice System in India has
also laid emphasis on the participation of victims in the criminal justice processes and has
advocated for compensation and restitution of the victims. But I think the all credit goes to
the individual or organizations which has raised their voice in favor of the rape victims. And
this all started in 1978 in Mathura case. But there are some steps which must be taken by
legislature or judiciary. For example, a proper accommodation and monetary help must be
provided to the rape victims when she is not able to work. Because sometimes she could not
be in the position to survive independently. In those circumstances the government must
come forward to provide a dignified life. Moreover the education system of the country
must be effective because there are some cases in which the criminal even doesn’t know
the consequences of the act.