India opens first women's court
This follows demands for faster trials after gang rape of young woman on Delhi bus

This follows demands for faster trials after gang rape of young woman on Delhi bus
A special court to deal with crimes against women has been opened in West Bengal state, India, following calls for faster trials following the recent gang rape and death of a young medical student in Delhi.
This will be the first of a series of planned courts and will be headed by two female judges. All staff and government lawyers will also be female.
The judges for the court have already been appointed, with 'secrecy during the trials' a priority, according to Justice Arun Mishra of the Calcutta High Court.
Lawyers in the state capital Calcutta believe appointing all female judges and staff will help women who have been raped or sexually assualted to be able to come forward.
Joydeep Mukherjee, the general secretary of All India Legal Aid Forum, said: 'When there are men around, the female victim can't speak up and give details of the atrocity committed against her. They feel shy. In these courts the victim will get a women-friendly atmosphere'.
On Wednesday a panel reviewing India's laws on sex crimes, after a woman was gang raped on a Delhi bus, called for faster trials and longer sentences for those convicted.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
The 23-year-old student, named as Jyoti Singh, later died of her injuries in hospital, sparking a national outcry and mass protests across the country.
The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.
-
We've tracked down the surprisingly affordable jewellery brands worn on 'The White Lotus'
Spoiler alert: Kate loves Missoma
By Clementina Jackson
-
Denim co-ords are my spring style saviour—these are the best ones to shop
One-and-done dressing at its best
By Clementina Jackson
-
Classical Pilates is raved about worldwide as the most effective type of Pilates you can do - 8 exercises that instructors recommend
Tried, tested and trusted moves.
By Katie Sims