Uddhav Thackeray Slams Delayed Response to Crimes Against Women, Urges Stricter Enforcement

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticized the delayed response to crimes against women, asserting that if President Droupadi Murmu had spoken out sooner after the Manipur incident, some recent crimes might have been prevented. Thackeray’s remarks came in reaction to President Murmu’s recent statement condemning the surge in violence against women.

On August 29, President Murmu addressed the nation, declaring “enough is enough” and calling for an end to the harmful mindset devaluing women. Her comments were in response to the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, stressing the need for immediate societal action to protect women.

Thackeray responded by stating, “It is commendable that the President has finally voiced her concerns. However, had she addressed these issues earlier, especially after the Manipur incident, which gained widespread attention only months later, we might have prevented further crimes.” He was referring to the May 2023 Manipur incident, where two women were paraded by a mob, a shocking event that drew national outrage.

The former Maharashtra Chief Minister also criticized the BJP for allegedly employing divisive tactics and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s delayed response to the Manipur unrest. He expressed doubt whether the Prime Minister would address recent sexual violence incidents in Maharashtra and West Bengal during his upcoming visit.

Thackeray advocated for the implementation of a ‘Shakti law,’ proposing severe punishments, including the death penalty, for crimes against women. He voiced skepticism about the effectiveness of current laws, asserting, “What good are stringent laws if they are enforced by ineffective personnel?” His comments highlight the need for both robust legislation and effective enforcement to ensure women’s safety and rights.