AIDWA is deeply disappointed by the UPA Government’s decision to refer the Criminal Law Amendment Bill to a Group of Ministers after the Union Cabinet meeting held on March 12th failed to evolve a consensus. This failure represents a step backwards in the process of bringing in a more comprehensive and effective legislation to address the crime of rape and sexual assault, on a priority basis. Women’s organizations had hoped that the flaws in the ordinance that was passed in the wake of the Verma committee submission would be rectified, and a more effective and stringent law would be placed, and passed by Parliament within the next few days. The urgency of this task cannot be underestimated, as the ordinance will lapse in three weeks’ time. The Delhi gangrape had witnessed an unprecedented outpouring of anger and resentment against the violence being perpetrated on young girls venturing out. Heinous sexual offences against women and children continue to be committed everyday, within and outside the home. In such a scenario, it was important for the Government to demonstrate political will and amend the law without delay. AIDWA demands swift passage of a Bill that will include the Verma committee recommendations, and the issues being highlighted by AIDWA and other women’s organizations for the last 20 years, to ensure that victims of sexual assault and rape can access speedy justice.
