Kolkata, Aug 22: In response to the horrific rape and murder of a junior doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She called for stringent anti-rape laws and exemplary punishment for those involved in such crimes.
Chief Advisor Alapan Bandopadhyay confirmed the letter’s contents, which Banerjee presented to the media. She proposed the establishment of special fast-track courts to expedite trials in rape cases.
The letter highlights the alarming frequency of rape cases across India, noting nearly 90 incidents daily. Banerjee urged for comprehensive central legislation to address these crimes. She suggested that trial proceedings should ideally be completed within 15 days to ensure swift justice.
Calls for Stricter Legal Measures and Fast Trials
The letter follows the discovery of the 31-year-old trainee doctor’s body at the R.G. Kar Medical College on August 9. The handling of the case by state authorities has faced severe criticism, leading to widespread protests and strikes by doctors and citizens.
The Supreme Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the case and established a National Task Force. This task force will recommend measures to improve safety and working conditions for healthcare professionals.
Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, Mamata Banerjee’s nephew, has called on state governments to push the Centre for a robust anti-rape law. He advocates for laws that ensure trial and conviction within 50 days and demand severe penalties for offenders, criticizing current measures as insufficient.
Also Read: AIIMS Doctors Call Off Strike After Supreme Court Appeal On Kolkata Rape-Murder Case
