Union Minister Annapurna Devi Criticizes West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee Over Fast-Track Courts
New Delhi, India, August 31: Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, has criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her recent letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the letter, Banerjee demanded fast-track courts and time-bound investigations for crimes against women.
Devi responded by stating that the information in Banerjee’s letter was factually incorrect and seemed to be an attempt to cover up delays in setting up Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) in West Bengal. Devi pointed out that while West Bengal has established 88 Fast Track Courts (FTCs), these are not the same as the FTSCs covered under the Central Government Scheme.
Devi highlighted that despite having 48,600 pending rape and POCSO cases, West Bengal has not operationalized additional FTSCs. She emphasized the need for the state to follow central guidelines, which provide for exclusive staff and judicial officers to handle these cases.
Devi also mentioned that stringent punishments for crimes like rape already exist under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including a minimum of 10 years of rigorous imprisonment, extendable up to life imprisonment or death. She reiterated the importance of following central legislation to strengthen the criminal justice system and ensure justice for victims.
Devi concluded by requesting Banerjee to ensure proper handling of cases and sensitization of duty holders to bring finality within prescribed timelines.
Doubts Revealed
Union Minister -: A Union Minister is a person who is in charge of a specific department in the central government of India. They help make important decisions for the country.
Annapurna Devi -: Annapurna Devi is a politician in India who is currently the Union Minister for Women and Child Development. She works on issues related to women and children.
West Bengal -: West Bengal is a state in the eastern part of India. It has its own government and Chief Minister.
CM Mamata Banerjee -: Mamata Banerjee is the Chief Minister of West Bengal. She is the head of the state government and makes important decisions for the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi -: Narendra Modi is the Prime Minister of India. He is the head of the central government and makes important decisions for the whole country.
fast-track courts -: Fast-track courts are special courts that deal with cases quickly, especially serious ones like crimes against women. They help speed up the justice process.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita -: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita is a set of laws in India that includes rules and punishments for crimes. It helps keep people safe and ensures justice is served.
