West Bengal Assembly Passes Historic Aparajita Anti-Rape Bill 2024 Amid Protests

Sep 3, 2024, 07:25 AM

The West Bengal Legislative Assembly has passed the 'Aparajita Woman and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill 2024,' aimed at strengthening protections for women and children against rape and sexual offenses. The bill was tabled by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following intense public outcry and protests over the rape and murder of a woman named Abhaya in Kolkata. The bill, which seeks to expedite investigations and deliver swift justice, received unanimous support from the opposition. The legislation has been described as historic by Mamata Banerjee, who emphasized the need for stringent punishment for rape accused and expressed solidarity with the families of rape victims. The protests, led by BJP workers, have seen significant participation, including a gathering of doctors at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The West Bengal government has also convened a special session to address the issue, and there have been notable statements from various political figures, including derogatory remarks by Mamata Banerjee that have been condemned by BJP leaders. The police used water cannons to disperse protestors, and questions have arisen about the role of Sandip Ghosh and the crime scene being secured after one hour.