Latest update : 2018-07-09
Parallel justice: How India's traditional councils are failing women
In India, traditional councils made up of village elders - known as Panchayats - have no judicial power but wield immense influence in local communities. Their role is being debated in light of a tragic case. In May, a 16-year-old girl approached such a council to complain about two men who had raped her. The men were fined but then went on to kill the girl in revenge. The case made national headlines and revealed how local councils can complicate the road to justice. Our correspondents report.
A programme prepared by Rebecca Martin and James Vasina.
