Mamata Writes to PM Modi: No Response Received on Critical Rape Legislation Issue

New Delhi- West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written a stern letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reiterating her demand for more stringent central legislation to address rape incidents and enforce exemplary punishment for perpetrators. This communication comes after her earlier letter dated August 22, which remains unanswered by the Prime Minister's office.

In her latest correspondence, Banerjee expressed dissatisfaction with the response received from the Union Minister of Women and Child Development, dated August 25. The Chief Minister criticized the response as generic and insufficiently addressing the gravity of the issue raised in her letter. She highlighted that the seriousness of the subject and its societal relevance had not been adequately recognized.

Banerjee also pointed out that several initiatives undertaken by the West Bengal government were overlooked in the central reply.

Notably, the state has approved 10 exclusive POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses) Courts and operates 88 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) and 62 POCSO-designated courts funded entirely by the state. The monitoring and disposal of cases are managed exclusively by these courts.

Additionally, Banerjee raised concerns about the current Central Government guidelines that stipulate only retired Judicial Officers be appointed as Presiding Officers in FTSCs. She noted that the High Court had suggested that permanent Judicial Officers should be appointed given the severity of the cases, and called for the Government of India to consider this recommendation.

The Chief Minister also praised the functioning of helplines in the state, including 112, 1098, and the emergency service Dial 100, which are actively used in critical situations.

In her letter, Banerjee reiterated her request for the introduction of stringent central legislation and mandatory timeframes for the disposal of rape and murder cases. She emphasized the need for a more robust response to address these heinous crimes and protect society at large.

The Chief Minister concluded by urging Prime Minister Modi to give this matter serious consideration, stressing its importance for the safety and justice for women in India.