After facing flak, Delhi government likely to withdraw controversial two-finger test circular: sources

New Delhi: After receiving flak for issuing a circular that said the controversial two-finger test on rape survivors cannot be completely banned, the Delhi government is likely to withdraw the circular, said sources on Monday.

The Aam Aadmi Party government had issued a notice which said that the two-finger test on rape survivors cannot be completely banned as it may be needed to perform in some cases. The government has directed doctors to compulsorily obtain the consent of the patient before performing the test. The government added the doctors are properly sensitised to conduct the test.

Hitting out at the Delhi government, Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Sambit Patra tweeted, "The Delhi government allows the controversial "Finger Test" for rape victims, despite the Supreme Court having ruled against it in 2013. Disgusting!"

The Congress also attacked the Arvind Kejriwal government over the circular. Senior party leader RPN Singh said, "This is extremely unfortunate. Though there are reports of them taking it back, but still even thinking about it is shocking."

Activists have also upped the ante against the Delhi government for issuing the controversial circular. Activist Abha Singh said, "After clear Supreme Court guidelines, how can AAP government send such directions? AAP spoke of empowering women, is this how they intend to do it? AAP's circular is degrading towards all women and it should be withdrawn."

The Supreme Court had in 2013 ruled, "Undoubtedly, the two-finger test and its interpretation violates the right of rape survivors to privacy, physical and mental integrity and dignity. Thus, this test, even if the report is affirmative, cannot ipso facto, be given rise to presumption of consent."

The court also said, "Medical procedures should not be carried out in a manner that constitutes cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment and health should be of paramount consideration while dealing with gender-based violence."