SHILLONG: In a landmark decision aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of sexual assault survivors, the Meghalaya Health and Family Welfare Department has banned the controversial two-finger test on rape victims.
In compliance with a Supreme Court order, the Department has issued a directive mandating an immediate cessation of the controversial test, urging all government doctors across the state to adhere to this directive without delay.
The directive, outlined in an official circular dated June 27, unequivocally prohibits the practice and underscores its mandatory compliance for all medical personnel employed in government healthcare facilities.
It warns of severe consequences, including potential suspension and other disciplinary measures under the Meghalaya Discipline and Appeal Rules, 2019, for any doctor found disregarding this order.
“The government is steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every individual, especially survivors of sexual assault,” the circular asserted.
It highlighted the need for medical practitioners to adhere strictly to the “Guidelines and Protocols for Medico-legal care for survivors/victims of sexual violence, 2014,” issued by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
These guidelines highlight providing survivors with compassionate, respectful, and sensitive medical care, including essential psychological support and counselling services.
The ban on the two-finger test aligns with directives from the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which have deemed the practice as “scientifically unfounded, traumatising, and a violation of the survivor’s rights and dignity”.
Earlier on May 7, while hearing a criminal appeal arising out of the High Court of Meghalaya, the Supreme Court had expressed its dismay that the test was used in a rape case despite being deprecated by the top court.
