New Legal Framework: Mob Lynching Now Carries Direct Death Penalty – Amit Shah
In the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the Lok Sabha has introduced significant reforms. Mob lynching's audacity will now result in a direct death penalty.
New Delhi: During the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Home Minister Amit Shah presented a bill to not only abolish the antiquated Sedition Law of the British era but also to instate the provision of death penalty for mob lynching.
This transformative development comes hand in hand with another novel provision – community service for minor offences, indicating a holistic approach towards justice. Moreover, the gravity of rape of a minor is addressed through the impending inclusion of the death penalty.
The ominous consequences of mob lynching were underlined in a chilling manner in a recent incident in Chhapra, Bihar. In June 2023, a 55-year-old man, Zaheeruddin, met a gruesome fate as he was beaten to death. The incident took place in Bagra village of Jalalpur police station area.
Zaheeruddin, an unfortunate victim, worked in a bone factory and was en route to his workshop when his car broke down. What began as an act of kindness quickly turned into a horrific incident. Onlookers, detecting a foul odor emanating from his car, grew suspicious and, upon inspection, discovered bones in a container. Tragically, this led to an unwarranted attack on Zaheeruddin, ending his life.
Another heart-wrenching example from the annals of mob lynching history is the case of Javarej Ansari. In 2019, Javarej, a 24-year-old man returning to his village, fell prey to suspicion and violence. The incident transpired near Dhatkidih village of Seraikela, where he was assaulted on allegations of theft. Regrettably, this act of violence was accompanied by the echoing chants of religious slogans. Subsequently, Javarej was handed over to the police and imprisoned. His health deteriorated, leading to his tragic demise in custody. The haunting phone call to his wife, Shaista, in which his voice trembled as he pleaded for help, remains a somber reminder of the brutal consequences of mob violence.
Addressing mob lynching’s gravity head-on, the legislative reform introduces a watershed provision – the death penalty. The audacity of mob lynching will now carry the direst consequences, aimed at curbing the prevalence of this gruesome act. This groundbreaking move showcases a resolute commitment to upholding the principles of justice and deterring potential perpetrators.
The Monsoon Session of the Lok Sabha ushers in a transformative era in India’s legal landscape. The audacity of mob lynching now invites a direct death penalty, reflecting a commitment to curbing this menace. Accompanied by comprehensive legal reforms, the country sets forth on a path of justice that stands against archaic norms and upholds contemporary values.
