Minister makes light of ‘one or two rape cases’

The remarks come against the backdrop of public outrage over brutal rape and murder of a minor in Kathua, and that of a 17-year-old girl in UP’s Unnao.  “Such incidents [rape cases] are unfortunate situation... But sometimes you can’t stop them. Government is active everywhere and taking action which is visible to everyone,” he had said in Bareilly on Saturday. “In a big country like ours, if one or two incidents take place, [a] brouhaha should not be created over it. This is not fair... Government is taking effective steps...Whatever is necessary will be done,” he had said.

On Sunday, however, the Bareilly MP tweeted, “I welcome the provision of death penalty for rape of any girl below 12 years. This will help in bringing deterrence in society. All of us have to stand up against this crime.”