Politicians condemn rape of minor, call for stringent action

NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari and leaders from across the political spectrum today expressed shock over the brutal rape of a five- year-old girl here and pressed for strong action to check such barbaric incidents.

While Congress President Sonia Gandhi sent out a stern message to the authorities that action, not words were required, BJP leader Sushma Swaraj demanded death for those found guilty of raping minors and indulging in brutality.

Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde has promised action against policemen if found guilty of trying to hush up the case by allegedly offering money to the victim's parents.

"I am shocked and deeply anguished at the latest incident of sexual assault and rape of a five-year-old child in Delhi. I join her family in praying for a speedy recovery and call upon concerned authorities to ensure the best possible medical attention for her," Rashtrapati Bhavan spokesperson Venu Rajamony quoted the President as saying.

While seeking urgent steps to bring the perpetrators to immediate justice, the President said, "As a society, we must introspect at the erosion of values and our repeated failure to ensure the security of our women and children."

Ansari spoke for self-reflection over recurrence of such incidents in the society.

"Apart from bringing the perpetrator of this heinous crime to justice expeditiously, it is critical for all of us to reflect on why these barbaric acts keep recurring in our midst," he said.

The Vice President also urged to change the regressive mindset towards women in the society.

Gandhi sent out a tough message to authorities that "action and not words" are necessary to stop recurrence of such incidents.