'Need faster verdicts': PM Modi on crimes against women
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called for expedited verdicts in cases involving crimes against women. He emphasized that such swift action would enhance the sense of security among half the population. His comments came amid nationwide outrage over the rape and murder of a woman doctor at a government hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal.
PM Modi highlights existing laws, calls for their activation
Speaking at an event marking the 75th anniversary of the Supreme Court, PM Modi highlighted several laws already in place to address women's safety. "There are several laws in the country that address the issue of women's safety. In 2019, the fast-track courts law was passed, under which witness deposition centres were created. District monitoring committees play an important role." "We must ensure these committees are further strengthened and faster verdicts are delivered in cases involving women's safety," he said.
PM Modi responds to CM Banerjee's letter
The PM's remarks came a day after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wrote to him, reiterating her request for stringent central legislation and exemplary punishment for heinous crimes like rape and murder. On Saturday, the central government responded to Banerjee's letter, stating that existing laws are strong enough to deal with such crimes and urged the state to act in letter and spirit.
Union Minister Devi emphasizes on existing legislation
Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, accused Banerjee of providing factually incorrect information about the status of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) and exclusive POCSO courts in West Bengal. Devi stated that according to information from the Calcutta High Court, West Bengal has established 88 Fast Track Courts (FTCs), not FTSCs as covered under the Central Government Scheme.
Kolkata rape-murder case sparks nationwide outrage
She highlighted that despite a backlog of 48,600 rape and POCSO cases, the state has not operationalized an additional 11 FTSCs. "The information contained in your letter in this regard is factually incorrect and appears to be a step...to cover up the delays in operationalizing the FTSCs," Devi said. The Kolkata rape-murder case has sparked widespread protests across India, with demands for strict punishment against the accused. The 31-year-old trainee doctor was allegedly raped and murdered on August 9.
