The West Bengal Assembly has passed the 'Aparajita Woman and Child Bill', also known as the West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment 2024. A significant amendment to central laws against rape and sexual offences, following the tragic murder of a doctor. The legislation aims to provide stronger support and justice for rape survivors. With the support from both the ruling party and the Opposition, the bill mentions the death penalty to those convicted of rape leading to the murder of the victim. State Law Minister Moloy Ghatak presented the bill at the assembly.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee praised the 'Aparajita' Bill 2024' for its historic and model nature, highlighting its potential to address gender-based violence and urging for prompt assent from Governor CV Ananda Bose. She mentioned, "Rape is a curse against humanity, and we require social reforms to prevent such atrocities."
The 'Aparajita Bill' proposes these reforms:
- Death Sentence for Rapists if the victim's condition leads to death or severe brain damage.
- A person convicted of Rape or Gangrape of Women will be presented with Life imprisonment.
- Repeat Offenders will be presented with life imprisonment or a financial fine, and in severe cases death penalty.
- POSCO Act provisions have been reformed and strengthened.
- Introduction of 'Aparajita Task Force' that grants punishment within 21 days of the preliminary report.
- The State Government sanctioned Rs 120 crores to cover the routes and ensure the safety of female doctors.
- Installation of CCTV Cameras everywhere.
- Amendments have been made in the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) 2023 ensuring stricter punishments.
- The bill emphasizes the seriousness of the crime and not the age of the offender, streamlining the legal process.
- The bill further proposes 52 special courts for rape and sexual offenses, introduces privacy protections, and aims for a victim-centered approach to justice, minimizing trauma for victims and their families, and also imposes penalties for unauthorized publication.
CM Mamata mentioned, "From here, after passing this bill, it will go to the Governor; after passing from him, it will go to the President, and after her approval, it will be historic." She further criticized high rates of women's crimes in Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, contrasting them with West Bengal's justice. BJP welcomed the Bharatiya Sanhita bill, highlighting its stringent provisions.
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