The Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government is set to introduce a stringent anti-rape bill during a special two-day assembly session starting September 1. This move comes amidst ongoing criticism over the RG Kar Hospital case and aims to strengthen the state’s legal framework against sexual violence.
On August 28, during the foundation day event of the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced her intention to enact a stringent anti-rape law. She emphasized that the bill would impose life imprisonment for rape and propose the death penalty in cases where the victim dies or is left in a vegetative state due to the assault. The proposed legislation also focuses on ensuring time-bound investigation, trial, and conviction processes.
Banerjee asserted that the Governor must sign the bill, warning of a larger uprising if it is not enacted. The bill is seen as an attempt by Banerjee to make a political statement, especially after her previous letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling for more stringent national legislation on rape.
However, there are concerns that the bill might not receive Presidential assent. According to the Constitution, if a state law contradicts an existing central law, the central law prevails. Despite this, Banerjee’s move is widely viewed as a strategic attempt to shift the narrative amid growing criticism of her government’s handling of law and order in the state.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while supporting the bill, has accused Banerjee of trying to divert attention from the ongoing controversies. BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar described the bill as a “drama” and questioned its practical impact, citing examples of similar legislation in other states that remain pending with the President.
On the other hand, TMC leader Shashi Panja defended the chief minister, stating that Banerjee is committed to fighting crime and improving the state’s legal framework. Panja also accused the BJP of engaging in theatrics while the public demands justice from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
As the special assembly session unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Banerjee’s strategy to introduce the anti-rape bill will successfully address the criticism and change the narrative surrounding her government’s law-and-order challenges.
