Recently, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a petition calling for the creation of nationwide guidelines aimed at ensuring a safer environment for women, children, and transgender individuals in society.

A bench consisting of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan issued notices to several central ministries and government agencies, setting the matter for further hearing next month.

The petition, filed by the Supreme Court Women Lawyers Association (SCWLA), was presented by senior advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani. Pavani proposed introducing stringent measures, including chemical castration for offenders, similar to those implemented in Scandinavian countries.

However, the bench described some of the proposed punishments as "barbaric and harsh," while recognizing the importance of exploring the innovative aspects of the petition.

"Some of the issues are very innovative. We strongly appreciate and admire it. But some of the directions you are seeking are also barbaric. You are asking for relief for the common woman on the streets in society, who are vulnerable and those who face resistance in day-to-day life," the bench stated.

She highlighted the rising incidents of sexual violence, especially in smaller cities, which often go unreported and neglected. Referring to the recent RG Kar Medical College Hospital incident in Kolkata, where a trainee doctor was raped and murdered, Pavani stated that about 95 similar cases of sexual violence have occurred but failed to gain public attention.  

"The issue of proper social behaviour in public transport should not only be taught but needs to be implemented strictly." He suggested that "do's and don'ts" for public utility vehicles, including buses, metros, and trains, should be widely publicised as he lauded the petitioner for highlighting it in the plea, "

The bench also expressed concerns over inappropriate incidents reported on airlines, emphasizing the need to raise awareness and enforce behavioral standards across all forms of public transport.

One of the prayers you have asked for is to issue guidelines for social behaviour in public transport. It's a very innovative idea. It's extremely important," the Court said.