SC dismisses PILs for FIRs against persons named in #MeToo

"Why 32 (under Article 32, a PIL can straightaway be filed in the Supreme Court)," the bench asked.

"Heard the petitioner appearing in-person and perused the relevant material. The issues highlighted would be considered by the court in the event an aggrieved person moves the court. The writ petition is, therefore, not entertained on the aforesaid ground. The same is, accordingly, dismissed," it noted in the order.

Sharma's plea, which had made National Commission for Women and the Home Affairs Ministry parties, urged the apex court to take "suo motu" (on its own) action and order registration of FIRs on the basis of statements made by the victim on social media.

It had also sought prosecution of men, whose names have been called out during the movement, under relevant penal provisions dealing with offences of sexual assault, misconduct and rape.

Sharma, in his petition had also sought a direction to the MHA for not interfering with the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) provisions and had said that such cases should be left to criminal courts.

"Issue direction to the respondent no 2 (MHA) to set up fast-track trial courts for conducting trial of the all sexual harassment cases to provide justice in a time-bound manner in the interest of justice," the plea had said.

All matters brought to Network18’s attention which are within the purview of the workplace have been forwarded to our Internal Committee for Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the workplace for appropriate action. The Internal Committee is independent and all recommendations made by it are followed through by Management action. Network18 Group has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to sexual harassment. The company complies fully with all legal provisions and seeks to ensure a speedy and effective Redressal on complaints.