On International Women’s Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed that his government has placed women’s safety at the forefront, enacting stringent laws and policies to protect them.
His address, delivered in Vansi Borsi village, Navsari district, Gujarat, underscored the government’s focus on creating a secure and empowering environment for women.
Stronger Laws For Women’s Safety
PM Modi discussed the enactment of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, a new law that replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code. This reform strengthens legal protections for women, simplifies the complaint process, and accelerates justice delivery. Modi pointed out that crimes like rape now carry the provision of capital punishment, showcasing the government’s commitment to protecting women. “My government changed the law to introduce capital punishment for heinous crimes like rape,” Modi said.
Fast-Track Courts For Swift Justice
In a bid to ensure quicker justice, the government has set up approximately 800 fast-track courts across the country, most of which are now operational. Modi explained that under the new laws, charges for serious crimes like rape must be framed within 60 days, and verdicts must be delivered within 45 days. The aim is to reduce delays in justice, which has often been a grievance for victims.
Reforming Police & Legal Procedures
The government has also made it easier for women to file complaints by allowing e-FIRs to be lodged from anywhere, ensuring prompt police action. In addition, rape victims can now give their statements through audio-visual means, which has been legally recognized. Modi emphasized that doctors are required to submit medical reports within seven days, further streamlining the legal process for victims.
BNS Reforms In Action
Modi highlighted a recent case in Surat, where charges were framed within 15 days in a gang-rape case, and the perpetrators were sentenced to life imprisonment within weeks. This, he pointed out, demonstrates the effectiveness of the new legal provisions in delivering swift justice.
Empowering Women Through Economic Initiatives
PM Modi reiterated that empowering women is essential for India’s progress. He emphasized that millions of women are contributing to the nation’s growth through self-help groups (SHGs). Over 10 crore women across India are part of 90 lakh SHGs, with more than 3 lakh operating in Gujarat alone. The government is focused on increasing their income through initiatives like the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ scheme, which aims to help women earn at least Rs 1 lakh annually from agriculture, animal husbandry, or small industries.
Modi announced that around 1.5 crore women have already become ‘Lakhpati Didis,’ with the goal of expanding this number to 3 crore within the next five years.
Respecting Women As A Foundation For National Growth
Modi concluded his speech by stressing that respecting women is vital to societal development. He quoted Mahatma Gandhi, noting that the soul of India lies in its villages. “Women are the soul of our rural areas,” he said, emphasizing the importance of empowering rural women for the country’s continued growth.
Financial Support For Women Entrepreneurs
During the event, Modi disbursed Rs 450 crore in financial assistance to over 2.5 lakh women from more than 25,000 SHGs. This initiative aims to support women entrepreneurs and foster economic independence.
In a symbolic gesture, the event was secured by an all-women police force, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to women’s safety and empowerment.
Prime Minister Modi’s address on International Women’s Day highlighted the significant strides made in women’s safety, empowerment, and economic independence, marking a continued effort toward building a more equitable and prosperous India.
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