Harsher punishment for rapists in India
Published:Wednesday | March 20, 2013 | 9:37 AM
A bill containing harsher punishments for rapists, including the death penalty, has been passed by India's lower house of parliament.
It comes after the fatal gang rape of a student in Delhi in December sparked demands for tougher laws and the regent gang rape of a tourist.
The legislation contains new penalties for stalking, groping, voyeurism and acid attacks.
The proposed new law will retain the age of consent for sex at 18 years.
Under the changes, the minimum sentence for gang rape, rape of a minor, rape by policemen or a person in authority will be doubled to 20 years and can be extended to life without parole.
Under the existing laws, a rapist faces a term of seven to 10 years.
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