Vikrant Shekhawat : Sep 03, 2024, 08:40 PM
Kolkata Rape-Murder Case: Today, an important and historic bill has been approved in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The "Aparajita Mahila and Bal (West Bengal Criminal Law Amendment) Bill 2024" presented in the special session of the Assembly was passed unanimously. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has termed this bill as a historic step, which makes clear the government's commitment to the safety of women and children in the state.Background of the BillThis bill was presented after the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College in West Bengal, where a female doctor was raped and murdered. The incident shocked the whole country and there were widespread protests against it. Mamata Banerjee's government has taken its stand against rape through this bill and has introduced it as an important reform in the law of the state.Key provisions of the bill1. Strict punishment for rape of minors: Under the Indian Penal Code, there are different levels of punishment in cases of rape of minors. But the new West Bengal bill provides for a uniform punishment in all these cases, which can be up to life imprisonment and death. This will increase the consistency and effectiveness of the law.2. Punishment for murder or serious injury after rape: The Indian Penal Code provides for a sentence of 20 years in case the victim dies or is in a coma after rape. Under the new bill, death penalty has been provided in such a situation, and life imprisonment without parole has been provided in cases of rape-gang rape.3. Speedy justice: The new West Bengal law reduces the deadline for investigation in rape cases to 21 days. In addition, there is a provision to extend it by 15 more days, but for this, reasons have to be given in writing. Thus, in total, the case is to be disposed of within 36 days.4. Strict penalty for revealing the identity of the victim: The new bill has increased the penalty for revealing the identity of the victim in rape cases and publishing court proceedings. Now the culprits can face a sentence of 3 to 5 years and fine, which is more stringent than the provision of the Indian Penal Code.Political PerspectiveLeader of the Opposition Shubhendu Adhikari supported the bill and demanded its speedy implementation. However, Mamata Banerjee appealed to the BJP MLAs to also seek the Governor's signature on the bill. This is an important sign of political unity and cooperation, which reflects the process of passing the bill.ConclusionThis anti-rape bill introduced by the Government of West Bengal will not only bring significant reforms in the laws of the state but it will also provide a new direction for the safety of women and children across the country. This move of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee can be seen as a bold and inspiring initiative, which creates a strong and effective legal framework against rape and sexual crimes.