Courts will deal with hate crimes sternly: Chief Justice of India HL Dattu

New Delhi: In the backdrop of increasing incidents of hate crimes in the country, Chief Justice of India HL Dattu has assured that the courts will be tough while dealing with the perpetrators of such crimes.

In an interview to The Times of India, Justice Dattu said: "India is a country governed by rule of law, which is of paramount importance. The courts will strive every bit to uphold the Rule of law. The courts will take stern view of those accused of hate crime when the prosecution presents cogent evidence.”

He underlined that it was the primary duty of every democratically-elected government to ensure security of citizens from divisive elements.

"The present government is no different. It has the same mandate to uphold the rule of law. I am sure it is taking adequate steps to rein in the divisive forces and make the citizens enjoy their fundamental rights as enshrined in the Constitution."