Stalemate continues on anti-rape bill

An all party meeting summoned to discuss the anti-rape bill has failed to reach consensus as many of the political parties differ with the lowering of age limit from present 18 to 16 for consensual sex. Both BJP and Samajwadi party have expressed reservations on this proposal. They are also opposing the government’s decision to redefine the words of voyeurism and stalking, which are punishable under this bill.

Unless, the bill is submitted before the parliament on or before March 22nd it can’t be passed during the present sessions of parliament. UPA government plans to introduce the bill only after it is approved by the all parties in the current meeting, so as it can be passed without much discussion in both houses. According to latest reports, once again all the political parties have met in the noon to find consensus on the bill. Parliamentary affairs Minister Kamalnath has told the media that he is very much hopeful of consensus on the bill.