The Trinamool Congress (TMC) Mahila Morcha in West Bengal organized a protest to demand the speedy approval of the Aparajita Women and Child Bill by the Central government, which aims to provide protection for women and children with strict penalties for offenders, especially rapists. TMC leader Shashi Panja voiced concerns about the delays in making the bill into law, emphasizing the importance of promptly implementing measures for the safety and justice of women and children in the state.
The Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, passed in September by the West Bengal Assembly after a disturbing incident of rape and murder, proposes severe penalties, including the death penalty or life imprisonment, for those found guilty of rape. However, the approval process was hindered when the West Bengal Government referred the bill to the President for approval, and Raj Bhavan raised issues regarding the Assembly secretariat's failure to provide required documentation, leading to a delay in the process.
Raj Bhavan Media Cell's statements highlighted the back-and-forth between the Chief Minister and the Governor, where the Governor emphasized the need for thorough examination of the bill to ensure legal and constitutional correctness. Despite the Governor pointing out flaws and advising against rushing the process, TMC leaders continue to stress the urgency of providing justice for victims of such horrific crimes and the necessity of effective government action. The bill is considered a significant step toward enhancing the safety and security of women and children in the state, but challenges in the approval process have fueled frustrations and calls for timely action.