The Supreme Court of India has recently intervened in a case involving the Allahabad High Court’s order to examine whether a rape victim is “manglik.” The Allahabad High Court had directed the Astrology Department of Lucknow University to assess the woman’s horoscope after the accused claimed he backed out of a marriage proposal due to her alleged manglik status. The Supreme Court stayed this order, emphasizing that astrology should not influence judicial decisions and that the victim’s privacy rights were at stake .
The concept of being “manglik” stems from the belief that individuals with Mars in certain positions in their horoscope may bring misfortune to their spouses. This superstition has led to practices like marrying a tree or inanimate object to offset potential negative effects. The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the need for sensitivity and respect for privacy in legal proceedings.
Legal experts and activists have criticized the Allahabad High Court’s approach, labeling it as insensitive and irrelevant to the case at hand. The Supreme Court’s intervention is seen as a step towards ensuring that judicial processes remain focused on the merits of the case and uphold the dignity and rights of individuals involved.
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