AP cabinet approves the historic bill on Women Safety law

The AP government took a sensational decision in the wake of the Disha murder case. AP Cabinet has approved a historic bill that would bring changes in the law pertaining to women safety. The State Cabinet has approved the Andhra Pradesh Criminal Law Act 2019, which would launch Special Court for offences Against Women and Children. Under the Act, a convicted person is sentenced to death if found guilty of rape.

According to the new law, the verdict will be out within 21 days when there is evidence of guilt. The investigation will be completed within 14 days. The bill was drafted to reduce the existing 4-month trial period to 21 days. Special courts will be set up in each district for offences such as rape of women and children, gang rape, acid attacks, harassment and sexual assault.

Stringent action will be taken on those who harass women on social media and jeopardize their dignity. Action will be taken against such persons under section 354 (e). For the first time the offence, two years of imprisonment. the second time the sentence is four years imprisonment. Further, for convicted of sexual offences against children, the action is taken under 354 (f) with a sentenced from five to seven years in prison. Under the POSCO Act, the current sentence of three years to five years has been increased to seven years