An assessment of the arguments against gender inclusivity in rape law in India

The article critically analyses the arguments against gender inclusivity in rape law in India using doctrinal, theoretical, and normative methodologies. The article does engage in a comparative assessment with literature from other international jurisdictions albeit in a restricted yet contextual way. The article begins by analysing the legislative proceedings and judicial precedents concerning gender neutrality in rape law since 2000. Then the article critically assesses the strength of major arguments against gender inclusivity in rape laws in India namely insufficient number of non-female victims of rape, dilution of importance given to female rape victims, fear of counter allegations and the adequacy of existing provisions of the Indian Penal Code,1860 and the Transgender Protection of Persons Act, 2019 to deal with issues of sexual violence towards non-female victims. The article concludes by recommending a revision in the existing law in India.