Did Bengal Governor Confirm Sending Back 'Aparajita Bill' to Mamata Government for Reconsideration?
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Synopsis
West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose has clarified the return of the Aparajita Bill to the state government for reconsideration, following objections from the Union Government. This Bill seeks to impose severe penalties for rape and murder cases, amidst rising concerns for women's safety.
Key Takeaways
- Aparajita Bill aims to enforce harsh penalties for rape and murder.
- Bill returned to state government due to Union Government objections.
- Legislation includes provisions for expedited investigations and trials.
- Governor's clarification aimed to quell confusion surrounding the Bill's status.
- Women's safety remains a critical issue in West Bengal.
Kolkata, July 26 (NationPress) The Governor of West Bengal, C.V. Ananda Bose, clarified on Saturday the uncertainty surrounding the return of the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill to the state government for further evaluation. This legislation aims to impose the strictest penalties on individuals accused of rape and murder.
Previously, a faction of insiders from Raj Bhavan had informed the media on Friday that the Governor had returned the Bill due to serious objections from the Union Government.
However, confusion ensued as officials within the state and the ruling Trinamool Congress denied that the Bill had indeed been referred back.
During a media interaction at Raj Bhavan in Kolkata on Saturday evening, the Governor resolved the uncertainty by stating that the Bill was sent back for reconsideration following significant concerns raised by the Union Government.
“When a Bill is presented to the Governor for assent, there are three choices. The first is granting assent, which I have done for many Bills. The second option allows the Governor to return the Bill to the assembly with queries and suggested amendments. If the assembly resubmits the Bill unchanged, the Governor must grant assent. The third option is to send the Bill for the Indian President's review, which I did for the Aparajita Bill,” Bose explained.
He elaborated that the Union Government has raised questions about specific provisions in the Aparajita Bill, prompting its return to the state for further consideration.
This Bill was passed in the West Bengal assembly last year following the horrific rape and murder of a junior doctor at the state-run R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital in Kolkata.
Afterward, the West Bengal Governor's office sent the Bill to President Droupadi Murmu for her assessment. With recent developments indicating the Bill's return for reconsideration, questions regarding its future are now arising.
The Bill stipulates that investigations in such cases must be completed within 21 days and chargesheets filed within 30 days. It includes provisions for expediting the trial process and proposes amendments to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act.
Point of View
The return of the Aparajita Bill poses significant implications for legislative processes and women's rights in India. As the Union Government raises concerns, it highlights the need for collaboration and thorough examination of laws aimed at protecting vulnerable populations.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Aparajita Bill?
The Aparajita Bill aims to impose stringent punishments for offenses related to rape and murder, specifically targeting the safety of women and children.
Why was the Bill sent back?
The Bill was sent back due to serious objections raised by the Union Government regarding certain provisions within the legislation.
What are the key provisions of the Aparajita Bill?
The Bill mandates the completion of investigations within 21 days and filing of chargesheets within 30 days, along with expediting trial processes.
Who is the Governor of West Bengal?
The current Governor of West Bengal is C.V. Ananda Bose.
What is the significance of this Bill?
The Aparajita Bill is significant as it addresses the urgent need for legal reforms to enhance the safety of women and children in West Bengal.
