In response to ongoing protests over the brutal rape and murder of a young doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, the West Bengal government, led by the Trinamool Congress, plans to introduce a new anti-rape bill during a special session of the state Assembly on Tuesday. The bill, titled **Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Law Amendment) Bill 2024**, proposes the death penalty for rape convicts if their actions result in the victim's death or leave her in a vegetative state.
The bill includes nearly a dozen provisions aimed at enhancing punishments for rape and gang rape, including life sentences. It also seeks to amend the newly-passed Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012, specifically for their application in West Bengal. These amendments aim to ensure tougher penalties and to establish a framework for the swift investigation and trial of crimes against women and children.
The proposed legislation mandates that cases be resolved within 21 days, with a possible extension of up to 15 days. The bill emphasizes the state's commitment to creating a safer environment for women and children, stating that it is a testament to the government's dedication to upholding fundamental rights and ensuring that heinous crimes are met with the full force of the law.
State Law Minister Moloy Ghatak is expected to present the bill in the Assembly, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in attendance. The session will focus solely on the bill, with discussions scheduled for two hours.
