THE stigma associated with an accusation of rape must be one of the very worst of all offences.

In some ways rightly so, due to the abhorrence of the offence itself.

But what we must remember – and be very clear about – is that an accusation is just that: an accusation.

It is a long way from being a conviction.

Some people will argue there is no smoke without fire.

But anyone who has even a passing knowledge of our judicial system will know many cases are not as straight forward as it first appears.

Miscarriages of justice do happen, as do false accusations.

The problem with rape is that by its very nature it often ends up as one person’s word against another.

Some people call for an automatic anonymity on those accused of rape, giving them the same rights as their alleged victims.

But taken to its logical conclusion, if this right is granted to those accused of rape, then others accused of murder, child pornography charges or even fraud could mount a good case for the same.

That would harm the principle of open justice that is so key to our judicial system. After all, most people appearing in court would rather their name was not released for one reason or another.

That’s why raising the issue publicly is instead one of the best ways to tackle the problem – and it is courageous of Sanjay Sarkar to want to do so.

Explaining the effect an allegation of rape has on the work, social life, friendships and reputation of the accused must be one of the most powerful ways of combating the stigma for those who are ultimately found innocent.