Doctors’ assns demand strict action on crime against women

They alleged that when decisions such as implementation of GST and demonetisation were made very quickly, the government delayed on serious issues like crimes against women and children.

“The encounter of the accused rapists in the Hyderabad case probably ended the hope of changes in the system of law. We want a standard punishment for all those who are convicted for rape. The central government should take steps to prevent all violence, including sexual violence against women,” said Dr R Shanthi, member, Doctors’ Association for Social Equality.

Meanwhile, the All India Progressive Council said it would hold a three-day national symposium on social justice in Chennai from January 24 to Jan 26 to discuss the trends in social and economic justice in the Indian context.

One of the key issues that would be discussed at the symposium includes women being turned away by the government authorities whenever they are subjected to violence. Despite the Centre-ruling BJP garnering a simple majority to form the government at the Centre, it has not taken steps to bring in the bill to offer 33 per cent reservation for women, condemned the association. During the national symposium, the association would also take up issues such as privatisation of public sector companies, economy instability and stress on social justice. “The economic volatility between the poor and the rich has increased. The exploitation of labour has intensified as public sector companies are privatised. Unemployment has risen to a record high,” added Dr Shanthi.