With sentiments running high over the recent release of the juvenile convict in the Nirbhaya case, the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday passed the Juvenile Justice Bill, which will amend the law to try those aged between 16 and 18 years as adults if they are accused of heinous crimes like rape and murder.
The Congress and Samajwadi Party, which had been asking for the bill to be referred to a select committee, seemed to bow to the prevailing sentiment and withdrew their demand, allowing the bill to sail through. The Trinamool Congress also supported the bill, with TMC lawmaker Derek O' Brien saying that if Nirbhaya had been his daughter, he would have shot the rapist.
Members of the Left, however, walked out, with Sitaram Yechury saying legislations should not be passed on "sentiments alone".
Now, 16-18-year-olds won’t get off lightly for serious crimes - Times of India
The Congress and Samajwadi Party, which had been asking for the bill to be referred to a select committee, seemed to bow to the prevailing sentiment and withdrew their demand, allowing the bill to sail through. The Trinamool Congress also supported the bill, with TMC lawmaker Derek O' Brien saying that if Nirbhaya had been his daughter, he would have shot the rapist.
Members of the Left, however, walked out, with Sitaram Yechury saying legislations should not be passed on "sentiments alone".
Now, 16-18-year-olds won’t get off lightly for serious crimes - Times of India
