CM Mamata pushes Aparajita Bill as TMC MPs urge President’s approval

Following the Abhaya case, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee introduced the ‘Aparajita Women and Children Bill’ to strengthen laws against crimes targeting women and children. The bill was passed with a majority in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly and aims to introduce stricter punishments, improved legal support, and enhanced protection mechanisms. However, despite state-level approval, it remains stalled at the central level, awaiting the President’s assent.

With the bill pending clearance, a delegation of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs has approached Rashtrapati Bhavan, urging the President to approve the legislation. The party maintains that the bill is crucial for ensuring stronger legal safeguards for women and children in West Bengal. The Centre has not issued an official statement on the delay, while opposition parties have questioned the need for a separate state-level law when national laws already exist.

The delay has fueled political tensions, with TMC leaders pressing for immediate approval and opposition parties calling for a review of the bill’s provisions. Banerjee, who had earlier led protests demanding stricter laws, continues to advocate for its implementation. The outcome of this legislative push could have significant implications for law enforcement and women’s safety policies in the state.