SECONDARY VICTIMIZATION IN DIGITAL SEX CRIMES AND ONLINE ABUSE LITIGATION

Author

Akashdeep Kour, Mr. Nikhil Jain


Abstract

 Digital technology has transformed the nature of sexual offences, creating new forms of victimization through non-consensual dissemination of intimate images, cyberstalking, online sexual harassment, cyberflashing, impersonation, and technology-facilitated sexual exploitation. However, the harm caused by digital sex crimes does not necessarily end with the original offence. Victims may experience secondary victimization when they approach law enforcement authorities, participate in judicial proceedings, interact with digital platforms, or encounter insensitive treatment from society. Repeated questioning, victim-blaming, unnecessary disclosure of intimate material, delays in investigation, and the circulation of identifying information may compound the original injury. In India, constitutional protections, criminal law, procedural safeguards, information technology legislation, and judicial principles provide a framework for addressing these concerns. Nevertheless, the practical effectiveness of these protections depends on sensitive investigation, privacy-preserving evidence management, prompt removal of unlawful content, and a victim-centred approach to litigation. This paper examines the meaning, causes, legal dimensions, and consequences of secondary victimization in digital sex crimes, with particular reference to Indian law. It also analyses institutional challenges and proposes reforms to ensure that access to justice does not expose victims to further humiliation, discrimination, or psychological harm.


Keywords

Secondary victimization, cybercrime, digital sexual abuse, online harassment, victim rights, privacy, evidence, Indian criminal law.



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References


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