The BJP, while welcoming the bill, highlighted that the BNS also includes stringent provisions for dealing with crimes against women and children...
Digital Desk: The West Bengal Assembly on Tuesday made a significant legislative move by unanimously passing the ‘Aparajita’ bill, marking a historic step in the fight against sexual violence. This new law, officially known as the Aparajita Woman and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment) 2024, is a pioneering measure that amends central laws governing rape, gang rape, and sexual crimes against children. With this bill, West Bengal has become the first state to introduce such comprehensive amendments to central legislation on these issues.
The bill, named as a tribute to a 31-year-old trainee doctor who was tragically raped and murdered at the RG Kar Medical Centre and Hospital last month, proposes severe penalties for sexual crimes. Specifically, it stipulates the death penalty for offenders if their actions result in the victim's death or leave her in a vegetative state. Additionally, it mandates life imprisonment without parole for those convicted of rape.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hailed the bill as ‘historic’ and ‘model,’ emphasizing its role in addressing gaps in existing central legislation. She urged the Leader of Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, to persuade the state Governor, CV Ananda Bose, to give his assent to the bill. Banerjee framed the legislation as a necessary step toward achieving justice and highlighted the urgent need for social reform to combat the pervasive issue of sexual violence. "Rape is a curse against humanity; social reforms are required to stop such crimes," she stated.
Banerjee’s comments also included a critique of other states with high crime rates against women, contrasting West Bengal’s efforts with those of Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. She expressed frustration at not being consulted before the passage of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) law, indicating a preference for more collaborative discussions.
The BJP, while welcoming the bill, highlighted that the BNS also includes stringent provisions for dealing with crimes against women and children. Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition, moved several amendments to the bill and underscored the need for immediate implementation. He emphasized that, despite the supportive stance of his party, there should be no delay in enforcing the new law. "We want results," Adhikari stressed, "It is the government's responsibility to ensure that this bill is implemented without any division."
The bill will now proceed to West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose and, subsequently, to President Droupadi Murmu for final assent. The swift legislative action follows a two-day special session of the assembly, convened in response to widespread protests over the recent rape and murder case.
As West Bengal moves forward with this groundbreaking legislation, the focus now shifts to its implementation and the broader impact it may have on sexual violence laws across the country.
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