The recent Kolkata doctor rape-murder case has spurred Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to introduce the West Bengal anti-rape bill. In a bold move to address crimes against women, CM Mamata Banerjee lauded the efforts of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government and the Bengal Police. She highlighted the alarming rate of such crimes in states like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.

“No one talks about what happened in Unnao or the lack of justice for the victim in Hathras,” Mamata Banerjee exclaimed in the West Bengal Assembly.

The West Bengal Assembly unanimously passed the anti-rape bill with full support from the Opposition BJP. The bill includes provisions for capital punishment for rapists in cases where the victim is deceased or in a vegetative state.

Named the ‘Aparajita Woman and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment) Bill 2024,’ this legislation aims to provide enhanced protection for women and children by amending existing laws related to rape and sexual offenses.

CM Mamata Banerjee expressed her gratitude for the bipartisan support and stated, “I appreciate the cooperation from opposition parties in the fight for women’s rights.”

Addressing a ‘historic event,’ the TMC supremo noted, “September 3 holds significance in the ongoing battle for women’s rights, mirroring the day when the United Nations initiated efforts to eliminate discrimination against women in 1981.”

“Once this bill is enacted, we will establish a dedicated Aparajita Task Force within the police department to ensure timely completion of investigations,” affirmed the West Bengal chief minister.

Kolkata Doctor Rape Case: Key Quotes from CM Mamata Banerjee

• “Rape is a curse on humanity and necessitates social reforms to curb such atrocities,” emphasized CM Mamata Banerjee.

• In advocating for the bill’s swift implementation, CM Mamata Banerjee urged, “Opposition should ensure the governor’s approval, and it is our duty to enforce it thereafter.”

• With ongoing CBI investigations in the Kolkata doctor’s rape and murder case, CM Mamata Banerjee demanded, “We seek justice from CBI, including the death penalty for the guilty parties.”

• Asserting the need for comprehensive legislative measures, Mamata Banerjee criticized the central government, stating, “Through this anti-rape bill, we aim to address the gaps in existing laws overlooked by the Modi administration.”

• Drawing attention to the lack of consultation with state governments, CM Mamata Banerjee criticized the enactment of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita without prior deliberation, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making post the new government’s formation.

• Implicitly contrasting the situation in Bengal with states like UP and Gujarat, CM Banerjee underscored the state’s commitment to delivering justice to victimized women in the face of heinous crimes. She referenced several distressing incidents, emphasizing the need for swift action.

• In a bold assertion, CM Mamata Banerjee challenged BJP MLAs in the Bengal assembly, questioning the lack of accountability in addressing similar issues at a national level.

• Emphasizing the bill’s objectives, CM Mamata Banerjee reaffirmed, “The anti-rape bill is designed to expedite investigations, ensure prompt justice delivery, and impose stringent penalties on offenders.”