Aparajita Bill: Stricter Penalties for Sexual Crimes Amid Criticism
In response to public outrage over the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG
Kar Medical College, West Bengal passed the Aparajita Women and Child Bill in 2024.
Named after the word “Aparajita,” meaning undefeated, the bill aims to symbolise resilience
against gender-based violence. It introduces the death penalty for extreme cases, mandates
fast-track courts, and requires investigations to be completed within 21 days.
While the bill promises safety measures like installing CCTV cameras in public institutions,
critics argue it was rushed without adequate consultation. The death penalty has sparked
controversy, with human rights groups questioning its efficacy as a deterrent. Critics also
highlight the bill’s focus on punitive action over prevention, noting that it fails to address the
root causes of sexual violence, such as societal attitudes and insufficient support for victims.
Concerns have been raised over the practicality of fast-tracking cases in an already
overburdened judicial system. Surveillance measures like CCTV, while helpful, are seen as
insufficient without cultural changes to address the institutional norms that contribute to
violence.
Experts advocate for a more comprehensive approach, including educational campaigns,
better law enforcement training, and improved survivor support systems.
CM Willing to Resign, Focuses on Justice
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during a press conference on Friday, stated
she is prepared to resign, emphasizing her focus on justice for the victim in the RG Kar
Medical College rape-murder case. “I want justice for the victim, I am only concerned about
ordinary people getting medical service,” she said.
Protests Intensify, Demand for Live Broadcast of Talks
Protesting junior doctors, led by Anustup Mukherjee, have made live broadcasted
discussions with the government non-negotiable. Mukherjee argued that if parliamentary
discussions and CM’s meetings are live telecast, their request is reasonable. Protests have
continued for five days outside Swasthya Bhavan, with junior doctors demanding justice for
the victim and accountability from the state government.
BJP and CPI(M) Accuse Government of Cover-Up
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused Mamata Banerjee of being
“cruel,” claiming her government prioritises “destroying evidence, hiding the truth, and saving
rapists.” CPI(M) leader Kalatan Dasgupta was arrested alongside another individual for
allegedly plotting to attack the protesting doctors in an attempt to defame the state
government.
Prohibitory Orders Extended, Doctors Deny Service Disruptions
Prohibitory orders around RG Kar Medical College, first imposed on August 18, have been
extended until September 30. Despite the ongoing strike, junior doctors maintained that
healthcare services remain unaffected, asserting that senior faculties are managing all
facilities.
Mamata Banerjee Appeals to Doctors
On Saturday, Mamata Banerjee visited the protest site and urged the junior doctors to return
to work, promising no adverse action against them. She emphasised her empathy as a
former student leader and assured the doctors she would study their demands and bring
justice for the RG Kar victim. The Chief Minister requested time, stating, “I do not run the
government alone, but whoever is found guilty will definitely be punished.”
Political and Public Reactions
While Mamata Banerjee’s visit to the protest site has been dismissed by BJP as a
“photo-op,” the victim’s mother expressed cautious optimism, hoping for concrete action.
She called for more forthright statements regarding punishment for the culprits, emphasising
the need for accountability.
A meeting between the agitating doctors and the Chief Minister is scheduled to resolve the
ongoing deadlock, with both parties seeking a swift and just resolution.
Reported by Ankitaa Bal
For
TRUE TO LIFE News Media