Prez Gives Nod to Death Penalty Ordinance

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New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind, on Sunday, gave nod to the ordinance which allows death penalty for raping girls under the age of 12 years.

The ordinance was passed by the Union Cabinet on Saturday after widespread public protests over the Kathua, Unnao and Surat rape cases.

“Whereas Parliament is not in session and the President is satisfied that the circumstances exist which render it necessary for him to take immediate action.

“Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by clause (1) of article 123 of the Constitution, the President is pleased to promulgate the following ordinance,” the gazette notification said.

While rapists of girls under 12 years will be given death penalty, the minimum punishment for raping girl has been increased from seven years to 10 years.