Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Independence Day from the Red Fort, emphasizing the urgent need to address crimes against women in India. His remarks come in the wake of widespread protests sparked by the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident has triggered national outrage, with citizens demanding swift justice for the victim.
PM Modi acknowledged the public's anger and frustration over the rising incidents of violence against women. He urged state governments to take these crimes seriously and ensure the safety of women. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of conducting speedy investigations and delivering strict punishment to those responsible for such heinous acts. He emphasized that prompt and severe penalties are crucial to restoring public trust and instilling fear among potential offenders.
"...I would like to again express my pain from the Red Fort today. As a society, we will have to think seriously about the atrocities against women that are happening - there is outrage against this in the country. I can feel this outrage," PM Modi said during his address. He urged that when those who commit such monstrous deeds are punished, it should not merely be a news item relegated to a corner but should be widely discussed to ensure that all understand the consequences.
The Prime Minister further stated, "It is the need of the hour, that extensive discussion on those receiving punishment be held so that those committing this sin understand that this leads to hanging. I think it is very important to instill this fear."
Earlier, before the Prime Minister's remarks, thousands of women from diverse backgrounds participated in midnight protests across West Bengal, expressing their anger and grief over the doctor's tragic death. The ‘Reclaim the Night’ protest saw women taking to the streets to demand justice and safer environments.
In a related development, some miscreants vandalized parts of the state-run RG Kar Medical College during the protests, further highlighting the charged atmosphere surrounding the case.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also responded to the public outcry by announcing her own protest to demand justice for the victim. She has called on the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which has taken over the investigation from Kolkata Police, to ensure that justice is served within the week.
The Prime Minister's comments, coupled with ongoing protests and the involvement of the CBI, underscore the gravity of the situation and the collective demand for accountability and action in the fight against crimes targeting women in India.
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