In the wake of growing public outrage over recent heinous crimes against women, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the safety and dignity of women in India. Speaking at the Lakhpati Didi rally in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, Modi described crimes against women as an “unpardonable sin,” affirming that his government is taking stringent measures to ensure justice for victims.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come at a critical time when the nation is reeling from the shock of two horrific incidents: the rape and murder of a doctor from Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital and the sexual abuse of two kindergarten students in Badlapur, Maharashtra. These cases have ignited widespread protests and demands for tougher laws to punish those who commit such atrocious acts.
Addressing the rally, Modi stated, “I have raised this issue repeatedly from the Red Fort. Today, be it any state of the country, I understand the pain and anger of my sisters and daughters. I will once again tell every political party of the country, every state government that crime against women is an unpardonable sin. Whoever is guilty, he should not be spared.”
The Prime Minister’s firm stance underscores the urgency of addressing the issue of women’s safety. He emphasised that strengthening the position of mothers, sisters, and daughters in society is not just a goal but a priority for his government. “Along with increasing the strength of mothers, sisters and daughters, their safety is also the priority of the country,” Modi asserted.
The outcry over these incidents has led to nationwide protests, with citizens demanding more robust legal frameworks and faster justice delivery. Earlier this week, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her concern in a letter to the Prime Minister, highlighting the alarming statistic that 90 rapes occur daily in the country. She urged Modi to implement a more stringent anti-rape law to curb this escalating crisis.
Modi’s address at the rally also pointed out that his government has made significant strides in improving the judicial process for crimes against women. He mentioned the introduction of a dedicated chapter in the Indian Judicial Code, specifically addressing atrocities against women and children. “If the victim women do not want to go to the police station, then they can register an e-FIR from home. We have also ensured that no one will be able to tamper with the e-FIR at the police station level,” Modi explained.
In a strong warning, Modi also noted that anyone who aids or abets the guilty should face consequences. “Be it a hospital, school, government or police system, at whatever level negligence occurs, everyone should be held accountable. The message should go very clearly from top to bottom. This sin is unpardonable,” he said.
Modi’s call to action resonates with a broader appeal for societal responsibility. “Governments will keep coming and going, but protecting life and protecting women’s dignity is a big responsibility of all of us, both as a society and as a government,” he remarked, highlighting that safeguarding women’s rights is a collective duty that transcends political and institutional boundaries.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted the need for stability in Maharashtra, suggesting that the continuation of the BJP-led Mahayuti government is crucial for the state’s ongoing development. “Maharashtra is the shining star of a developed India,” Modi declared, underlining the importance of consistent governance for the state’s prosperity.
As Maharashtra gears up for its assembly elections, likely to be held after the Diwali festival, the discourse on women’s safety is expected to remain at the forefront of political agendas. Modi’s commitment to strengthening laws and ensuring justice for women victims sends a strong message that the government will not tolerate crimes against women and will act decisively to prevent them.
The issue of women’s safety in India is not just a legal matter but a moral imperative. Prime Minister Modi’s strong stance on crimes against women, combined with the government’s efforts to strengthen laws and judicial processes, is a step in the right direction. However, it is up to every citizen, community, and institution to contribute to creating a society where women feel safe and respected.
Let’s work together to ensure that every woman in India can live without fear. Share this message and join the movement to support women’s safety in your community.