Medicolegal Study of Alleged Rape Victim Cases in Mumbai Region

Background: The sexual assault on women and female children is one of the most heinous crimes against mankind. Sexual violence is ubiquitous; it occurs in every culture, in all levels of society and in every country of the world. Sexual violence has a significant negative impact on the health of the population. The root causes of sexual and gender-based violence lie in a society’s attitudes towards and practices of gender discrimination, which place women in a subordinate position in relation to men.Methods: The prospective study was conducted in Mumbai region from 1st January 2011 to 31st December 2012 in which 152 cases of alleged rape victims which was booked under the section 376 of Indian Penal Code which was brought for medical examination. Strict confidentiality about their names was maintained.Results: The most common age group comprised ages between 16-20 years in which total 63 (41.44%) cases were observed. Most of the victims i.e. 99 (65.13%) were unmarried. Most of the incidences took place at accused house, i.e. 69 (45.39%). In 142 (93.42%) cases the assailant was known to the victim. In 113 (74.34%) cases the time interval between the alleged incidence and examination was more than seven days. In 139 (91.44%) cases the hymen showed old tears at multiple positions. None of the report out of 66 reports from forensic science laboratory was found to be positive for spermatozoa.Conclusion: Rape cases show a constantly rising pattern with a low conviction rate. There is no age safe from rape, maximum cases being in the age group 16-20 years as there are multiple physical, social and mental factors playing a role. Unmarried young women are at increased risk. Significant number of cases report late to the police/doctor. The delay results into loss of valuable biological trace material evidences