Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the urgent need for expedited justice in cases of crimes against women during a recent address at the National Conference of District Judiciary in New Delhi. His remarks were prompted by growing public outrage following the tragic rape and murder of a woman doctor at a government hospital in Kolkata.
Modi highlighted that atrocities against women and the safety of children are serious societal concerns. He stated, “The faster justice is delivered in cases of atrocities against women, the greater assurance half of the population will have about their safety”. He acknowledged the existence of stringent laws aimed at protecting women’s safety, including the fast-track courts law enacted in 2019, which established witness deposition centers and district monitoring committees. He called for strengthening these committees to ensure quicker verdicts in such cases.
The Prime Minister’s comments also addressed the need for better coordination within the criminal justice system to facilitate swift justice. He noted that while many strict laws are in place, their effectiveness relies on active enforcement and coordination among relevant authorities. His statements come amid ongoing protests and discussions surrounding women’s safety, particularly in light of recent high-profile cases of violence against women in India.