THE Indian government had worked with the government of Gujarat state to fast-track the release of 11 men serving life terms for raping a Muslim woman, Bilkis Bano, and killing her family in 2002, according to NDTV.

A minister, defending the decision, said: “When the government and the concerned people have taken the decision, I don’t find anything wrong in it as it is a process of law.”

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi said “there is a provision” for release of convicts who have spent “quite some time” in jail.

The move had sparked outrage among opposition circles, with legal experts questioning the application of the law for premature release to convicts sentenced for a “heinous, grave and serious” crime.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had condemned the Bharatiya Janata Party over the decision, saying the BJP had confirmed a notion that it was an “anti-women” party.

Published in Dawn, October 19th, 2022

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...
Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...