Kathua and Unnao rape cases: DCW chief to go on indefinite hunger strike

As a mark of protest against the inaction of authorities in meting out justice to the Kathua and Unnao rape victims, Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chairperson Swati Maliwal will be going on an indefinite hunger strike from Friday, at Rajghat.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the women’s commission chief said that while sexual violence against women and children had reached “new heights” in the nation, failure to take action against the accused was “shameful”.

“It is shameful that the local leaders and the Bar Association held demonstrations in a bid to shield the accused in Kathua. On the other hand, in Unnao, the father of the victim was killed while in custody whereas the accused is still roaming around fearlessly. It is painful to see your silence in the matter. Is the “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” slogan that meaningless to you?” read the letter to the Prime Minister.

Demand stringent laws

The Delhi Commission for Women chief, further, reiterated the commission’s demand for stringent laws against those accused of raping minors.

“I urge you to formulate a mechanism by which those accused of raping minors are handed the death penalty within six months. Fast track courts should also be set up to complete proceedings in matters of sexual violence against women, within six months. Even the Nirbhaya Fund has not been utilised properly. How will the current scenario change if no deterrence is created against the perpetrators?” said Ms. Maliwal.