Call for Shakti Bill Implementation Amid Pune Bus Rape Case

Congress and NCP (SP) demand Maharashtra government to implement the Shakti bill following a Pune bus rape case. This bill, passed by the state legislature, emphasizes strict punishment for crimes against women but awaits Central government approval. Criticisms arise over governmental inaction and recent crime rates.

The Congress and NCP (SP) on Friday voiced their concerns regarding the recent rape incident inside a Pune bus, urging the Maharashtra government to implement the Shakti bill. This legislation, which proposes the death penalty for heinous crimes against women and children, has been stalled, lacking approval from the Central government.

Speaking to the media, former state home minister Anil Deshmukh expressed frustration over the delay. Deshmukh highlighted that the Shakti bill was enacted by the Maha Vikas Aghadi four years ago, yet remains unapproved at the Central level. The Pune incident has reignited discussions about women's safety and the necessity of capital punishment for such offenses.

Further criticism emerged from Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, who labeled the non-implementation of the Shakti bill as a failure of the Mahayuti government. He called for immediate amendments and passage of the bill in the upcoming budget session. Meanwhile, comments from Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam regarding the crime were met with backlash, perceived as downplaying the severity of the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)