Karnataka Minister Calls for Stronger Laws to Protect Women

Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao advocates for tougher legislation to combat crimes against women following the murder of a doctor in Kolkata. He emphasizes the need for enhanced safety measures in hospitals. This move coincides with West Bengal passing a bill for stricter punishments for sexual offenses.

Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has called for stronger laws to address crimes against women in the wake of the rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata. He highlighted that the Karnataka government has formed a committee to review women's safety in hospitals.

"Safety and security for women are very important. Laws should also be strengthened. After the West Bengal case, we have constituted a committee to look into the safety of women in hospitals and how we can enhance it. We have to keep women safe. In our society, women are always targeted and exploited by men. To address this, strong laws should be enacted," Rao told reporters.

The rape and murder at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital led to nationwide protests. On Tuesday, the West Bengal Assembly passed the 'Aparajita Woman and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment) 2024', providing for stiffer penalties for sexual crimes against women.

The bill requires rape case investigations to be completed within 24 days of the initial report. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee supported the bill, stating it aims to protect women's dignity and that any mistreatment of Bengal would have broader repercussions.

CM Mamata Banerjee said, "I had written two letters to the Prime Minister, but I did not receive any reply from him; instead, I received a response from the Minister of Women and Child Development. I also replied to her and informed the Prime Minister. When the Code of Justice Bill was passed hastily before the elections, I had objected because states were not consulted. This new bill is to ensure women's protection because any mistreatment of Bengal will have a ripple effect."

(With inputs from agencies.)