Quintet accused of student's rape and murder go on trial
Thursday 24 January 2013
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EmailThe trial of five men charged with the gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old Delhi student began today.
Last month's brutal attack sparked a wave of protests across India and elsewhere, highlighting ongoing violence against women and calling for tougher laws on rape.
The trial will be closed to the media and a gagging order has been place on those inside the court.
A sixth man allegedly involved in the two-hour assault will likely be tried in a juvenile court when it is confirmed that he is under 16.
The trial started a day after a panel formed after the protests made its recommendations on dealing with sexual violence.
Proposals include a review of existing legislation giving immunity to police accused of torture, making marital rape a crime, including transgender people as victims of rape and changes to trafficking laws.
The committee headed by former chief justice JS Verma also recommends those sentenced to life imprisonment should have no hope of release.
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