Friday, 15 November 2024
Friday, 15 November 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched on a range of pressing issues during his public address on August 31, shedding light on the urgent need for action across various sectors. From the alarming rise in crimes against women to transformative changes in the nation’s criminal justice system, here’s a look at the four critical issues he highlighted:
Women's safety
In the wake of horrifying incidents, such as the alleged rape and murder of a doctor in Calcutta and the sexual assault on two kindergarten girls in Thane, PM Modi underscored the grave concern these atrocities present to society. "The faster justice is delivered in cases of atrocities against women, the greater assurance half of the population will have about their safety," the PM said. He further highlighted the need for improved coordination within the criminal justice system, despite the presence of stringent laws, to ensure justice is not just promised but delivered.
Role of the judiciary
Reflecting on the 'dark' period of the Emergency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the judiciary for its crucial role in upholding the fundamental rights of citizens during a time when democracy itself was at stake. He also lauded the judiciary for its consistent efforts in safeguarding national integrity, particularly in matters of national security, where the courts have often placed national interests above all else.
New criminal laws
PM Modi talked about the scrapping of the controversial sedition law as part of the new criminal laws replacing the British-era Indian Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure. "In Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, we have found a new directive for delivering justice," the PM said, signalling a shift towards a more citizen-centric approach in the justice system. He stressed that these reforms aim to free India’s criminal laws from the 'shackles of colonialism,' ensuring that the legal framework better reflects the aspirations and needs of a modern, democratic India.
Indian Railways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the strides made by Indian Railways in addressing long-standing issues. He noted that the increased budgetary allocations to states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have bolstered rail transport in the southern region, which has historically faced neglect. "The railways will not stop till it becomes a guarantee of comfortable travel for all," PM Modi said.
