Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep concern over the mistreatment of women on Thursday, advocating for swift investigations into such offenses and demanding that the culprits receive severe penalties promptly. Amid nationwide protests following the horrific rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, PM Modi highlighted the widespread anger in the country towards these crimes. He emphasized that the nation, society, and state governments must take this issue seriously.
"I wish to convey my distress once more, from the Red Fort today. As a society, we must reflect deeply on the injustices faced by women—there is a strong outcry against this in the country. I can sense this outcry. The country, society, and state governments must take this seriously," the Prime Minister stated.
"Speedy investigations are underway for crimes against women, and those responsible for these heinous acts will be given strict punishment as soon as possible—this is crucial to restore confidence in society," PM Modi said during his Independence Day address from the Red Fort.
PM Modi also stressed the importance of widely discussing the punishments meted out to perpetrators of such crimes. "I would also like to note that while incidents of rape and atrocities against women are widely reported, the punishment of those with such tendencies is often overlooked. It is imperative that we extensively discuss the consequences of their actions to instill the fear that they will face severe repercussions," he explained.
The incident involving a post-graduate trainee doctor who was raped and murdered in Kolkata on August 9 has led to widespread outrage and protests, not just within the medical community but across the nation. Doctors nationwide continue to protest, demanding justice for the victim.
The Prime Minister also commended women's self-help groups, which now involve around 10 crore women working in various sectors. "When women achieve financial independence, it transforms society," he noted. Modi also mentioned the increase in maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks to support working mothers and ensure the government does not impede their efforts to raise their children well.
Reflecting on the sacrifices made by those who fought for the nation's independence, PM Modi expressed gratitude towards them. "This is the day to honor those who fought and sacrificed their lives for the nation's independence. We bow down to every brave heart and pay our respects with reverence," PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister also called on the nation to strive towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, remembering the courage of 400 million Indians who drove out the British decades ago.
