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The article centers around a critical accusation levied against the West Bengal government by Union Minister Annapurna Devi. Devi, holding the portfolio of Women and Child Development, sharply criticizes the Mamata Banerjee administration for its failure to implement crucial central government schemes aimed at addressing crimes against women. This criticism comes amidst a wave of protests in West Bengal following the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a state-run hospital, further intensifying the focus on women's safety and security issues in the state.
Devi underscores the irony of the situation, highlighting that despite being led by a woman chief minister, West Bengal faces a deteriorating scenario for women's safety. She emphasizes the lack of implementation of central schemes such as fast track courts, emergency helplines, and POCSO courts designed to provide swift justice and support for victims of violence against women and children. Devi stresses that these schemes are funded by the central government, implying that the state government's inaction is a deliberate choice to not prioritize women's safety and welfare.
The article delves into the specifics of the unimplemented schemes, particularly the fast track special courts (FTSCs), including those dedicated to POCSO Act cases. While other states have operationalized these courts, disposing of a significant number of cases, West Bengal remains behind. This delay in establishing and operationalizing these courts directly impedes the swift resolution of cases involving violence against women and children, potentially contributing to a sense of impunity for perpetrators and exacerbating the challenges faced by victims.
Furthermore, the article points out the state's failure to implement essential emergency helplines like the Women Helpline, Emergency Response Support System, and Child Helpline. These vital services, intended to provide immediate assistance and support to victims of violence, remain absent in West Bengal despite repeated reminders from the central government. This omission underscores the state government's apparent disregard for the immediate needs of victims and its lack of commitment to creating a responsive and supportive environment for women in distress.
Devi's statements and the ongoing protests in West Bengal shed light on a concerning trend of inadequate measures taken to protect women's safety and address violence against them. The article raises serious questions about the state government's priorities and its commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of women. It highlights the urgent need for effective implementation of central government schemes and the creation of a comprehensive and robust system of support and justice for victims of violence in West Bengal.
Source: West Bengal failed to implement Centre's schemes to deal with crimes against women: WCD minister