Ordinance is in response to public demand, says PC
in the Budget Session of Parliament and “there will be discussions with political parties. There will be a debate in Parliament when the Bill is introduced to replace the ordinance”.
While recommendations on punishment have been accepted, Chidambaram said the ordinance has prescribed death as the maximum punishment in case of rape followed by injury which causes death or leaves the victim in a persistent vegetative state. He said death has been prescribed as the maximum punishment in the case of a second conviction for sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault. Besides, the ordinance contains provisions amending the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act. “These amendments are intended to protect the dignity of the victim, restrain any police excesses and facilitate better recording of evidence. These provisions will ensure fair and speedy trial of cases and more stringent punishment to those convicted,” he added.
