Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin introduced two bills in the state assembly today to increase punishments for crimes against women.
One bill aims to strengthen the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, 1998, while the other seeks to amend the application of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita in Tamil Nadu.
Presenting the bills, Stalin emphasised his government's commitment to women's safety. He stated that sexual assault is a serious crime that should carry severe punishment as a deterrent.
"Punishment for such crimes must be more stringent," he said, adding that his government has always worked for women’s welfare and empowerment, increasing their participation in society, politics, and the economy.
Stalin assured the assembly that his government would take strict action against those committing crimes against women, calling it an "iron fist" approach. He also shared data showing that 86 per cent of such cases have chargesheets filed within 60 days.
Also Read: Anna University: Rajinikanth refuses to take question on women safety
These bills come amid criticism of the ruling DMK party after a sexual assault at Anna University. Opposition parties, including AIADMK and BJP, have protested against the incident, which involved a 19-year-old student attacked by a repeat offender who had access to the campus.
The DMK faced backlash not only for the incident but also for the leaking of the assault survivor's personal details in the FIR.
Recent crimes against women have further fueled opposition criticism of the state’s law-and-order situation.
Also Read: 'Anna univ accused is not DMK member, just sympathiser,' admits Stalin
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