Kiren Rijiju, a prominent leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over her stance on the Aparajita anti-rape bill. The bill, introduced by TMC MP Aparajita Sarangi, aims to introduce stringent measures against sexual crimes, including provisions for swift investigation and trial, and stricter punishments for offenders. Rijiju expressed his disappointment with Banerjee’s apparent lack of support for the bill.
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In a recent statement, Rijiju said, “I feel sad that a woman leader like Mamata Banerjee, who has always projected herself as a champion of women’s rights, is not extending her support to such a crucial bill.” He further emphasized that the anti-rape bill is designed to ensure faster justice and more severe penalties for rapists and sexual offenders, thus providing a strong deterrent against such crimes. Rijiju accused Banerjee of politicizing an issue that should unite all parties across the political spectrum, especially when it concerns the safety and dignity of women.
The BJP leader also called for a broader consensus among all political parties, stating that “women’s safety should not be a matter of political maneuvering but of national priority.” Rijiju’s remarks reflect a growing tension between the central government and Mamata Banerjee’s administration, which has often clashed on key legislative matters. His statements highlight the need for cooperation in passing legislation that could significantly impact the country’s approach to dealing with sexual violence.
Rijiju’s criticism of Banerjee’s stance suggests that he views her position as inconsistent with her previous advocacy for women’s rights. As the debate over the Aparajita anti-rape bill continues, the political and social implications of the discourse around it remain significant.
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