Controversy Erupts as West Bengal Passes Aparajita Bill

West Bengal Assembly passed the Aparajita Woman and Child Bill, leading to BJP's Sudhanshu Trivedi criticizing CM Mamata Banerjee's motives. Trivedi accused Banerjee of deflecting issues rather than genuinely addressing women's safety. Banerjee defended the bill, stating it aims to protect women and ensure their dignity.

The West Bengal Assembly's unanimous passage of the Aparajita Woman and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment) 2024 has sparked a political debate. BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of using the bill to divert attention from other issues. According to Trivedi, all necessary legal provisions against rape already exist, but their effective implementation requires genuine intent.

Trivedi further criticized Banerjee by highlighting the alleged lack of action following the rape and humiliation of BJP workers after the 2021 assembly elections. He questioned the number of fast-track courts established and the rate of convictions in these cases. Trivedi also inquired about actions taken against those who allegedly destroyed evidence at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, defending the bill, stated that it aims to secure women's dignity and warned of potential ripple effects if Bengal is wronged. She recounted her unacknowledged letters to the Prime Minister and criticized the Code of Justice Bill's hasty passage without consulting states. Banerjee emphasized the bill's importance in safeguarding women, stressing that the lack of consultation with various parties was a significant flaw.

(With inputs from agencies.)