rape

Rape refers to a violent crime involving the non-consensual sexual assault of an individual. It is considered one of the most serious violations of a person's bodily autonomy and dignity. Rape can happen to individuals of any gender, though women and girls are disproportionately affected worldwide. Legal definitions of rape vary by country, but they generally involve sexual intercourse or other forms of sexual penetration carried out against the will of the victim, often through physical force, threats, coercion, or incapacitation.

In India, rape is defined and penalized under Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The law was amended in 2013 following the Nirbhaya case, leading to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, which expanded the definition of rape and introduced stricter penalties, including life imprisonment and, in some cases, the death penalty for aggravated forms of rape. The amendments also criminalized acts such as voyeurism, stalking, and acid attacks.Special laws, such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, address the sexual abuse of minors, ensuring stringent punishment and child-sensitive procedures for reporting and trial.

Efforts to combat rape include strengthening laws, providing support systems for survivors, raising public awareness, and creating safe spaces for reporting. Governments and NGOs work to improve access to legal, medical, and psychological assistance for survivors while focusing on rehabilitation and punishment for perpetrators. Despite global efforts to address the problem, rape continues to be a pervasive issue, with many cases going unreported due to fear, stigma, and inadequate legal support.

In August 2024, BOOM investigated a viral claim that Ankita Bauri, a protestor, was raped and murdered in West Bengal.

BOOM found that the claim was false, with the East Bardhaman Police confirming that no missing diary had been registered under the name of Ankita Bauri, debunking the misinformation surrounding the incident.