Governor Refers Controversial Aparajita Bill to President Amidst Political Tensions

West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose has referred the Aparajita Women and Child Bill to President Droupadi Murmu. The referral comes after heated debates and threats from the Chief Minister, with the Governor criticizing the government's hasty approach.

West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose has forwarded the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024, to President Droupadi Murmu. This action follows the bill's passage in the assembly, accompanied by a mandatory technical report from the state's government.

The Raj Bhavan Media Cell criticized the Assembly secretariat for not providing the required debate texts and translations. They also reported that Governor Bose took issue with Chief Minister's threats of protest if the bill was not approved. The Governor admonished the government for not adhering to legal and constitutional standards.

The Governor highlighted flaws in the bill, urging the government to avoid hasty decisions. He emphasized the need for justice within the current legal framework, advising the government to support affected families effectively while pointing out the bill's defects and urging for better-prepared legislation.

Passed on September 3, 2023, the bill introduces severe penalties for rape, including the death penalty or life imprisonment, following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor on August 9, 2023, in Kolkata.

(With inputs from agencies.)