Former Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh has demanded capital punishment for the accused in a recent case involving the rape and murder of a minor girl. Speaking to the media, Deshmukh expressed outrage over the heinous crime and called for the strictest possible legal action against the perpetrators.
Demand for Death Penalty
Deshmukh emphasised that the accused should be given the death penalty, stating that such brutal crimes warrant the highest punishment under the law. He argued that leniency would only embolden criminals and undermine the safety of women and children in the state.
Criticism of Government Inaction
The former minister also took aim at both the state and Central governments, accusing them of passing the buck on implementing the proposed Shakti Act. The Act, which aims to curb sexual crimes, has been pending for months, with neither government taking decisive action to bring it into force.
Deshmukh said, "The governments are busy blaming each other while crimes against women continue to rise. The Shakti Act must be implemented immediately to send a strong message to offenders." He called for a coordinated effort between the state and Centre to ensure swift justice and effective deterrence.
Background of the Case
The minor girl was allegedly raped and murdered in a village in Maharashtra, sparking widespread protests and demands for justice. The accused has been arrested, and the investigation is ongoing. Deshmukh's remarks come amid growing public anger over the incident and the perceived failure of the authorities to prevent such crimes.
Political Reactions
The case has also drawn sharp reactions from opposition parties, who have criticised the ruling government for its handling of law and order. Deshmukh, a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), has been vocal about the need for stronger laws and their strict enforcement.
He further noted that the Shakti Act, which includes provisions for faster trials and stricter punishments, has been languishing due to bureaucratic delays. "The government must stop making excuses and act now. Every day of delay costs innocent lives," he added.
Call for Public Support
Deshmukh urged citizens to raise their voices against such atrocities and support the demand for swift justice. He expressed confidence that the judiciary would deliver a fair verdict but stressed the need for systemic changes to prevent future incidents.
The former home minister's statement has reignited the debate on the effectiveness of existing laws and the urgency of implementing the Shakti Act across the country.
