In Brief
This Supreme Court judgment addresses the protection of identity for victims of rape and child sexual abuse. The Court held that Section 228A of the IPC prohibits disclosure of victim names or any information that could lead to identification, extending beyond merely the name to include indirect identifying details. The Court directed that FIRs in sexual offence cases must not be made public, police should use pseudonyms where possible, and sealed covers should protect sensitive documents. For adult victims filing appeals after acquittal, pseudonymous filing is permissible. For child victims under POCSO, disclosure is allowed only when the Special Court determines it serves the child's interest. The judgment emphasizes establishing child-friendly courts and one-stop centres in every district to provide integrated support for victims.",
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