West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the second time, requesting the creation of a central law that would enforce strict punishments for serious crimes such as rape and murder related to rape.
In her letter, Mamata Banerjee also highlighted the importance of ensuring that these cases are handled quickly by the courts, so justice is not delayed. She expressed her concern that her previous letter on the same issue did not receive a response, which she found troubling.
Banerjee’s renewed call for stronger laws and swift action comes in the wake of a tragic incident on August 9, where a 31-year-old junior doctor was brutally raped and murdered at Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital. This incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of individuals, prompting her to urge immediate action to prevent such heinous crimes in the future.
Mamata Banerjee Urges PM Modi for Stronger Laws on Women’s Safety
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written a second letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, voicing her frustration over the lack of response to her previous request for stronger laws against crimes targeting women. This comes after the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata.
In this latest letter, which Banerjee shared on her X (formerly Twitter) account, she criticized the central government for not addressing her concerns seriously. “There was no reply from your side on such a crucial issue,” she stated.
Although Banerjee acknowledged receiving a response from the Minister of Women and Child Development, she noted that it failed to address the gravity of the issue. She further expressed that the central government’s generic reply did not adequately recognize the seriousness and societal importance of the matter.
Also Read: Kolkata Rape Suspect Allegedly Assaulted Another Woman on Same Night
West Bengal’s Response to Women’s and Children’s Safety
In a letter to the Bengal Chief Minister, Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi criticized the state government for not effectively implementing safety measures for women and children.
In response, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee defended the state’s actions, highlighting that the State Government has approved 10 exclusive Pocso courts. She also mentioned that 88 fast track special courts (FTSCs) and 62 Pocso-designated courts are fully operational across the state, funded entirely by the State Government. The monitoring and resolution of cases are managed by the courts themselves.
Addressing concerns about the functionality of fast-track courts, Banerjee pointed out that, as per central government guidelines, only retired judicial officers can serve as presiding officers in FTSCs.
However, the High Court has suggested that due to the seriousness of the cases, permanent judicial officers should be appointed, a matter that needs the Government of India’s consideration. Banerjee emphasized the need for intervention on this issue.
Regarding the criticism of emergency helplines, Banerjee assured that Helpline numbers 112 and 1098 are functioning effectively in the state, with Dial 100 also being widely used in emergencies.
Demand for a Strict Central Law Against Rapists
The Bengal Chief Minister recently urged the Prime Minister to introduce a stringent central law aimed at punishing rapists. She also emphasized the need for fast-track special courts to ensure quick trials and justice for victims.
In her letter, Banerjee stressed that lawmakers have a “bounden duty” to fight against the rampant issue of rape and the tragic murders that often follow.
“It is our responsibility to end this menace so that women can feel safe and secure. This grave and sensitive issue requires a comprehensive approach, with strict central legislation that imposes exemplary punishment on those involved in such heinous crimes,” she wrote.
Also Read: Mamata Banerjee Issues CBI Ultimatum in Doctor’s Rape-Murder Case
FAQs
Q.1. What is Mamata Banerjee’s recent request to Prime Minister Modi?
Ans. Mamata Banerjee has requested the creation of a strict central law to enforce severe punishments for crimes like rape and murder, and to expedite court trials.
Q.2. Why did Mamata Banerjee write a second letter to the Prime Minister?
Ans. She wrote a second letter due to a lack of response to her initial request and the urgent need for stronger laws following a recent tragic incident in Kolkata.
Q.3. What incident prompted Banerjee’s renewed call for action?
Ans. The tragic rape and murder of a 31-year-old junior doctor in Kolkata on August 9, 2024, highlighted the need for immediate and stringent measures to ensure safety.
Q.4. How has the state government responded to criticism about women’s safety?
Ans. Chief Minister Banerjee defended the state’s efforts, noting the establishment of several fast-track courts and effective emergency helplines, while also addressing concerns about the appointment of judges.
Q.5. What is the role of fast-track courts in addressing rape cases?
Ans. Fast-track courts are designed to handle serious cases quickly to ensure swift justice and minimize delays in the legal process for victims of severe crimes like rape.
