Supreme Court Justice Tek Prasad Dungaana Calls for Amendment to Rape Laws
Summary
Supreme Court Justice Tek Prasad Dungaana has called for amendments to Nepal’s rape and criminal laws, saying current penalties can destroy the dignified life of minors involved in consensual relationships. He also urged reforms in summons service, appeals procedures, and alternative sentencing options to reduce court delays and improve prison management.
Key Points
- Supreme Court Justice Tek Prasad Dungaana said rape-related legal provisions should be amended, arguing current punishments can severely harm minors’ future lives.
- He called for changes to the criminal code, summons service procedures, and jurisdiction over certain petitions to reduce delays and workload in district courts.
- Dungaana urged a uniform 35-day appeal period for both sides in criminal cases and said Nepal should expand alternatives to imprisonment such as parole, probation, open prisons, and community service.
- He also suggested placing prison management under the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs to improve coordination with the judiciary.
