Delhi gang-rape: Govt agrees to fast-track probe, increase policing

Government agreed to fast track investigations into sexual offences like rape and increase policing that includes deployment of the force in plain clothes to instill sense of security in the capital.

New Delhi: Heeding to suggestions from public, Government on Sunday agreed to fast track investigations into sexual offences like rape and increase policing that includes deployment of the force in plain clothes to instill sense of security in the capital. During a meeting with Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and Union Minister of State for Home R P N Singh, the protesters who were outraged over the recent gang-rape incident in South Delhi put forth 14 demands which were readily accepted by the Government.

Sources said the government also agreed to expand definition of sexual assault from eve-teasing to rape and acid attacks and strictest provision of the law for sexual assault. They said the government agreed to fast track investigations into sexual offences like rape and increase policing that includes deployment of the force in plain clothes. It was also agreed that patrolling by PCR vans needs to be strengthened and there would be punitive action against officials or personnel for delays in reaching the spot. The sources also said the Government also agreed that citizen security officers would be deployed and there would be more lighting in public spaces, while CCTVs would be used adequately in specific areas relating to women`s safety. The government also promised to protesters that GPS would be installed in public vehicles, while dedicated number for contacting police 100 should be recorded, on the lines of 911 in the US. Dedicated round the clock women helpline, fast track courts, "day-to-day trial, rarest of rare punishment and 100 per cent justice in this case in shortest possible time" are the other suggestions which were agreed to. PTI