Judge criticised for asking rape victim 'Did you try to close your legs?'

The unnamed woman had told the court how a man had repeatedly violently abused her sexually and physically.

Judge Maria del Carmen Molina Mansilla, in the Basque Country responded to the claim by asking the woman: "Did you close your legs and your other female organs?"

After a shocked silence, the woman, who is four months pregnant, responded with a simple "yes"

The offensive question has sparked protests in the country with The Clara Camoamor Association, a campaign group for victims of gender crime, asked the General Council of the Judiciary, which reviews the independence of judges in Spain, to suspend Judge Mansilla for her insensitive questioning.

A spokesperson for the campaign association, Blanca Estrella Ruiz said the remarks showed a clear prejudice towards disbelieving the rape victim and even blame her for the ordeal.

Ms Ruiz added that the incident was not the first time that the judge had appeared to make light of a victim's allegations.

Spain's judicial authorities have since confirmed they are investigating the complaint.

In Spain, one in five women have been victims of assault.

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