While the police deny all the allegations, the report throws light on how rape survivors are treated by the very officers who are supposed to help them. Today, we see an increasing number of women mustering the courage to file a rape complaint. They are encouraged to name and shame those that harass them, and society recognises that it is the the culprit who should be ashamed, not the target.

Having said that, it is not enough to simply tell rape survivors that they must speak up. The authorities must ensure that the survivors are treated with dignity and sensitivity. Officials must take sensitivity training seriously so that they know how to deal with complaints like these. While working within the ambit of the law is important, these cases call for understanding, compassion and an absolute premium on respect for the complainant. In fact, the last factor is non-negotiable.

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Society too must show support for the survivor and make her feel she has made the right decision to speak out or complain. The complainant must be made to feel it was worth the effort, that justice will be served and she will be helped to piece her life back together. She must not be pushed to regret the brave step she has taken, because that would be a step back.