"States must ensure women's safety", says PM Modi in his Independence Day speech

On Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort, highlighting the public's growing anger over crimes against women and urging state governments to take urgent action to ensure their safety. His remarks came against the backdrop of massive protests across the country, sparked by the recent rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College Hospital in Kolkata.

In his speech, PM Modi expressed deep concern over the atrocities faced by women in the country, emphasizing the need for swift investigations and strict punishments to restore public trust. "As a society, we must think seriously about the rising violence against women. There is a palpable outrage across the nation, and I can feel this anger. State governments and society must take this issue seriously. Speedy investigation and stringent punishment for the perpetrators of such monstrous crimes are essential to instill confidence in the public," he said.

The Prime Minister also noted that the punishment of individuals involved in such heinous acts often goes unnoticed by the public, remaining confined to the margins of news coverage. He urged for broader discussions on the consequences faced by those convicted of such crimes to create a deterrent effect. "It is the need of the hour that we extensively discuss the punishments handed out, so those committing these sins understand that such actions lead to severe consequences, even the death penalty. Instilling this fear is crucial," PM Modi stressed.

Earlier, lakhs of women across West Bengal prepared to take to the streets at midnight, expressing their anger over the tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College. The protests, demanding justice for the victim, have been ongoing across various cities, reflecting the widespread call for action against violence towards women.