Even though the new anti-rape bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, the Centre’s decision to include provisions to curb stalking and voyeurism encountered strong opposition, with some members expressing apprehensions that it could be used to harass the people.
Janta Dal(U) chief Sharad Yadav pointed out that there was only a thin line between stalking and the way girls were wooed by boys especially in college.
“Who among us have not followed girls.. I too have done that. The girl may not give us a lift the first time, you have to pursue her and then tell politely. This is the way,” he said.
He argued that the provisions could be misused by the authorities and many youngsters would find themselves in jail. Citing the misuse of the anti-dowry law, Sharad said employers will henceforth be scared to give jobs to women candidates.
He also took a dig at the manner in which the women had been portrayed in song sequences in flicks like Sheila ki Jawani and Muni Badnam huyi,which could tempt even older people.
SP chief Mulayam Singh Yadav too joined the issue saying the new law was ridiculous.
Despite capital punishment awarded to the convicts in three rape cases, it had failed to act as a deterrent.
“You want to give us to policemen who will harass us. Girls and boys who study together will be in trouble,” he said.