WPL: RCB chase down highest ever total, beat GG by 6 wickets
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed support for the death sentence awarded to one of the convicts in the rape and murder case of a minor in Farakka. A local court in Murshidabad sentenced one of the accused to death and the other to life imprisonment. The crime, which took place on October 13, 2024, involved the brutal rape and murder of a minor girl. The case was fast-tracked and concluded swiftly, with the court delivering its verdict in less than two months.
Banerjee praised the judicial system for its quick action, drawing a parallel with the Joynagar case, where a death penalty was handed down to a convict just 62 days after the crime. "Barely a week ago, @WBPolice and our justice system secured capital punishment within just 62 days for the perpetrator of a brutal rape-murder of a minor in Joynagar. Today, death penalty has been awarded to one of two accused in the heinous rape-murder of yet another minor in Farakka," Banerjee stated. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for swift, time-bound trials, underscoring that timely justice helps set an example and deter future crimes.
In line with her consistent stance on harsher punishments for rapists, Banerjee reiterated that those convicted of rape, particularly involving minors, should face the death penalty. She pointed out that capital punishment acts as a significant deterrent and called for greater societal efforts to address and eradicate sexual violence. "I believe that swift, time-bound trials and punishments will serve as a powerful deterrent, sending a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated," Banerjee added.
The Chief Minister's comments reflect ongoing efforts by the state government to tighten laws around sexual violence. In September 2024, the West Bengal government introduced the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024. This bill aims to amend the state’s criminal laws, proposing the death penalty or life imprisonment for those convicted of rape, particularly in cases involving minors. The bill was introduced after several high-profile cases of violence against women, including the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College, which raised concerns about the safety of women in the state.
Banerjee also acknowledged the efforts of the state police and the prosecution team, congratulating them for their role in securing the convictions in the Farakka and Joynagar cases. “I congratulate the state police and all involved in the prosecution process for this achievement, while my thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim,” she said. The West Bengal government’s focus remains on ensuring that justice is delivered in a timely manner, with the aim of preventing further crimes and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.