On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the importance of quick justice in cases involving crimes against women, stating that this will increase their sense of security. His words were made at a time when outrage in India was being felt over the reported rape and murder of a 31-year-old woman trainee doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, as well as the sexual assault of two kindergarten girls in Thane.
“Today, atrocities against women, safety of children are serious concerns of the society. The faster justice is delivered in cases of atrocities against women, the greater assurance half of the population will have about their safety,”Modi stated at the first national meeting of the district judiciary, attended by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud.
Modi stated that there are various strict laws in place to address crimes against women, and that more coordination within the criminal justice system is required to achieve fast justice.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee requested strong central legislation and exemplary punishment for serious crimes including as rape and murder, prompting Modi’s statements. PM Narendra Modi emphasised the judiciary’s role in safeguarding the Constitution, stating that the Supreme Court and the judiciary have fulfilled their responsibilities.
Modi further stated that the people of India have never exhibited any distrust in the Supreme Court or judiciary. The prime minister described the implementation of the Emergency as a “dark” period, saying the judiciary performed an important role in protecting fundamental rights. In areas of national security, Modi stated that the judiciary has maintained national integrity by prioritising national interests.