source - Internet
New Delhi: The Centre has responded sharply to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after she raised concerns about rape incidents across India. The Central government pointed out that Bengal was allocated 123 fast-track courts for handling cases of rape and child abuse, but many remain non-functional.
Mamata Banerjee Calls for Tougher Laws
After a doctor was raped and murdered in Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College, Banerjee wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She demanded stricter central laws to punish rapists and highlighted that 90 rape cases occur daily in India, with many victims also being murdered. Banerjee stressed the need for quick trials, proposing that they should be completed within 15 days.
Centre’s Response Highlights Non-Operational Courts
Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annpurna Devi, responded to Banerjee’s letter. She expressed condolences for the tragic incident and mentioned that the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, implemented last month, addresses crimes against women with stringent punishments.
Devi also highlighted that a scheme to establish fast-track courts was launched in 2019. “As of June 2024, 752 fast-track courts are functional in 30 states/UTs,” she said. However, West Bengal, allocated 123 courts, has only operationalized six out of the 17 revised targets.
Lack of Support for National Helplines
The minister also criticized the West Bengal government for not implementing a national helpline for women and children in distress. The state has not taken steps to start the remaining fast-track courts, despite the pendency of 48,600 rape and POCSO cases in West Bengal.
Call for State Action
Devi concluded by urging the West Bengal government to fully utilize the legal and schematic provisions provided by the Centre for women’s safety. She expressed hope that the state would create a secure environment for women and girls.
