The Jammu and Kashmir government is working on changes in the laws relating to rape to make these more stringent.
The move comes on the directions issued by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to the law and parliamentary affairs department in the aftermath of the recent incident of gang rape in Delhi.
"On the directions of chief minister, Minister for Law Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Ali Mohammad Sagar took a meeting to review the laws relating to rape," an official statement said.
The meeting was attended by M I Qadri, advocate general, G H Tantray, secretary law, and senior officers of the department.
"It was emphasised during the meeting that very effective and stringent provisions are needed to be incorporated in the law relating to sexual offences to make it deterrent and in tune with public sentiments," the statement said.
"The changes in law will deal with various stages including investigation, prosecution and trial of such cases. The department will also consult some experts on the subject to make it comprehensive and effective. It will include changes in substantive law Ranbir Penal Code (RPC) as well as the procedural laws (Criminal Procedure Code and Evidence Act). Necessary initiatives will be taken to provide for fast-track investigation as well as fast track trial within shortest period."
"It was further decided that a final draft of the bill shall be prepared shortly for being placed before the cabinet," it said.
