OutFocus December 2014 | Page 9

COVER STORY 09 photo: Shweta Basu, when she appeared for an interview at 9XE following her acquition Shweta was acquitted from the case on 7th December 2014. Which means that she is really a victim. Then she should be entitled to her privacy and anonymity. For instance, the law prohibits anyone from disclosing the identity of a rape victim. The penalty for disclosure, even accidental and unintentional disclosure is imprisonment. Even after death, Nirbhaya’s identity is protected. In contrast, Shweta’s name, as well as details about her life, how much she allegedly “charged” have all been happily broadcast by all (including the police). The worst thing is that she was never even convicted. Even if the allegations were true, to this day we do not know anything about the “pimp” or all those paying customers. They have all evaporated, or did not exist. As a victim she deserves full protection of anonymity, and all the support that survivors get. Thankfully many prominent citizens, film actors and others have reached out strongly in her support. But the social stigma of having been caught in a police raid will never go away. This is most troubling, that someone who is a victim has to hide her face in shame. And those who exploited her enjoy immunity from the law and the spotlight. - Sga Thomas, associate editor. [email protected]