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Synopsis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that the quicker the decisions in cases related to atrocities against women, the greater will be the assurance of safety for half the population.

Speaking at the inauguration function of the two-day National Conference of District Judiciary organized by the Supreme Court of India, PM Modi stressed the urgent need for fast decisions in cases of atrocities against women.

The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of the fast-track special courts established in 2019 and said that these have been designed to accelerate legal proceedings and provide a quicker resolution for victims.

Furthermore, he highlighted the inclusion of deposition centers for crucial witnesses in these courts and emphasized the role of District Monitoring Committees—comprising the District Judge, District Magistrate, and Superintendent of Police—in ensuring effective coordination within the Criminal Justice System.

PM Modi called for these committees to become more active, asserting that the timeliness of decisions in such cases directly impacts the assurance of safety for women, thereby safeguarding half the population.

"There is a need to be more proactive. The faster the decisions come in cases related to atrocities against women, the more confidence the half of the population will get," he said.

PM Modi also lauded the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, emphasizing its foundational principles of 'Citizen First, Dignity First, and Justice First.'

He said we have now moved away from the colonial-era mindset of rulers and subjects. He cited the repeal of sedition laws as a prime example of this departure.

The Prime Minister detailed the Nyaya Sanhita’s aim to protect rather than punish citizens, pointing out the introduction of stricter laws against crimes involving women and children. He also highlighted the novel provision for community service as a punishment for minor crimes.