Law to be passed with death penalty for rape: Law Minister

Law Minister Anisul Haque said, a change is being made in the existing rape laws with a provision of death sentence. A proposal will be sent to the cabinet in this regard.

The minister said this while addressing reporters on Thursday (October 8).

He said, the decision was taken following the direction of the Prime Minister. The proposal will be raised on Monday (October 12).

The punishment of rape was mentioned in ‘Women and Children Repression Prevention Act 2000 (WCRPA), section 9’.

According to the rules, a man is said to commit "rape" who except in the case hereinafter accepted, has sexual intercourse with a woman under circumstances falling under any of the five following descriptions: Firstly, against her will. Secondly, without her consent. Thirdly, with her consent, when her consent has been obtained by putting her in fear of death, or of hurt. Fourthly, With her consent, when the man knows that he is not her husband, and that her consent is given because she believes that he is another man to whom she is or believes herself to be lawfully married. Fifthly, with or without her consent, when she is under fourteen years of age.