India rape trial yet to reach ‘fast-track’ court

Posters are lit by candle light during a protest in New Delhi. File photo: AFP

Posters are lit by candle light during a protest in New Delhi. File photo: AFP

Published Jan 17, 2013

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New Delhi - One month after the fatal gang rape of a young woman on a moving New Delhi bus, a promised “fast-track” trial has yet to begin.

On Thursday, another pre-trial hearing ended after a few minor procedural issues were raised. Defense lawyers for the five accused men said they needed additional copies of some of the evidence.

Authorities are eager to move the case into a fast track court after the especially brutal attack drew nationwide protests and worldwide scrutiny of violence against Indian women. Those courts are designed to avoid the delays, incompetence and corruption that plagues much of India's legal system.

Lawyers for the five have said police mistreated their clients, including beating them to force them to confess to the December 16

crime. - Sapa-AP

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