Should the President Approve the ‘Aparajita’ Anti-Rape Bill for Women's Safety?
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Synopsis
In a compelling call to action, Trinamool Congress representatives demand immediate approval of the 'Aparajita' Anti-Rape Bill following a shocking gang rape incident in Durgapur. This legislation aims to enhance women's safety and ensure strict punishment for offenders. The urgency of this matter is emphasized by the swift arrest of suspects, contrasting with other regions.
Key Takeaways
- The 'Aparajita' Anti-Rape Bill aims to enhance women's safety.
- Recent events have intensified calls for legislative action.
- Swift arrests in Durgapur contrast with responses in other states.
- Trinamool Congress is pushing for the bill's immediate approval.
- The bill has been pending approval from the President.
West Midnapore (West Bengal), Oct 15 (NationPress) Following the alarming gang rape incident in Durgapur, Riju Dutta, spokesperson for West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress, urged on Wednesday that the 'Aparajita' anti-rape bill must be approved by the President to bolster women's safety across the state.
In an exclusive statement to IANS, Dutta expressed, “The situation in Durgapur is deeply saddening. While I cannot comment on the ongoing investigation, it is noteworthy that within 48 hours, five suspects have been apprehended. Such rapid response is rarely seen in BJP-governed states. In Uttar Pradesh, similar crimes frequently occur with little to no action taken. However, here in West Bengal, we prioritize women's safety.”
“According to reports from the NCRB, West Bengal stands as the safest state for women. Those politicizing this matter should cease immediately. We must instill fear in the hearts of offenders who commit such dreadful acts. The only solution is the passage of the 'Aparajita' Anti-Rape Bill, which advocates for severe penalties for the guilty. For the safety and protection of women, this legislation is crucial,” he added.
On September 3, 2024, the West Bengal Assembly passed the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024 unanimously. However, the bill awaits the President's approval and is currently pending.
On Monday, Trinamool MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar echoed calls for the approval of the stalled legislation.
“We view this (Durgapur gang rape) as a despicable act. We demand justice for the victim. After the West Bengal Assembly passed the Aparajita Bill, it was sent to Delhi, but the Central government has yet to act. It remains with the President. Regardless of the government's statements, the President ultimately makes the call. Despite our appeals, it has not been ratified. Thus, the responsibility lies with the Central government,” she remarked.
Just a day post-incident, Trinamool released a statement expressing that while crimes like rape deserve the utmost condemnation and the strongest laws, the Union government has opted for delays rather than fulfilling its duty regarding the Aparajita Anti-Rape Bill. They highlighted that over a year has passed since the law's passage, yet the Union government has taken no steps to enact it.
Point of View
I believe that the urgency surrounding the approval of the 'Aparajita' Anti-Rape Bill reflects a growing national concern for women's safety. The swift response to the Durgapur incident highlights the importance of legislative measures that can effectively deter crime. The ongoing delays by the central government raise questions about their commitment to women's rights and safety.
NationPress
15/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Aparajita' Anti-Rape Bill?
The 'Aparajita' Anti-Rape Bill aims to implement stricter punishments for individuals committing rape and enhance the safety measures for women in West Bengal.
What prompted the demand for the bill's approval?
The recent gang rape incident in Durgapur and the subsequent swift arrests have intensified calls for immediate legislative action to ensure women's safety.
What has been the response of the Trinamool Congress regarding the bill?
The Trinamool Congress has strongly advocated for the bill's approval, emphasizing the need for stringent laws and swift justice for victims.
Why is the bill still pending?
The bill has been sent to the President for assent but remains pending, leading to frustration among lawmakers and advocates for women's safety.
How does this situation compare to other states?
Riju Dutta highlighted that rapid action in West Bengal contrasts with the slower responses often seen in BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh.
