SHILLONG, Dec 29 � In memory of the Delhi gang rape victim and also in solidarity with the Garo Hills gang rape victim, people took out a candle light vigil here this evening.
The event was organised by Civil Society Women�s Organisation (CSWO) at the Don Bosco Square and was joined by people of all walks of life who lit candles for the victims and condemned such incidences of atrocity against women.
Agnes Kharshiing of CSWO while asking people to join in the vigil said that the Government has done precious little to help the rape victims. �Rapists are walking scot-free and the government is doing little about it,� she said.
Several students, both male and female, paying their respects to the Delhi gang rape victim, said that strict law should be enacted and the investigation must be done properly so that victims get some sort of justice.
�These cases should be properly investigated and charge sheeted swiftly by the police. And most importantly, fast track courts must adjudicate rape cases,� Ibashisha, a student said.
Others like Ibashisha had similar opinions, most said that though there are laws, but their proper administration is lacking. �The police goof up the cases because they are inept. Then they harass the victims by asking uncomfortable questions. The right thing to do is ask little and get into investigation as soon as such cases are reported so that the accused are charge sheeted,� another student added.
The Delhi gang rape victim passed away today at a hospital in Singapore after battling for her life for several days.
The Williamnagar gang rape victim has received medical attention and Meghalaya police have promised that charge sheet would be compiled in ten to fifteen days.
The unfortunate incident happened on December 13 when she was returning home after a festival when she was attacked by minors and also six men.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, condoling the death of the Delhi rape victim, said he is �very grieved at the death of the young brave heart who despite being brutally assaulted and raped fought on for over two weeks.�
He expressed concern that such incidents of �heinous crimes against women are increasing with each passing day not only in the national capital but all over the country.�
�A thorough look at the prevailing system to address this menace is the need of the hour. A comprehensive action plan is therefore required which should involve the government and the people as any change that we want can only take place when the people themselves get involved in the process. This problem is serious and we all need to concertedly strive towards a permanent solution,� he added.
