Parliament has approved the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2013 to strengthen the anti-rape laws with the Rajya Sabha adopting it by voice vote today. The bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

Replying to the discussion, Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde said specific provisions have been made to deal with the crimes against women. He said for the first time, acid attack has been penalized in view of their increasing cases of acid attacks.

Stating that new category of crimes against women like disrobing, stalking and voyeurism are on the increase, Home Minister said the proposed law has sufficient provision to curb these types of offences. He said strictest provisions have also been made for crimes such as trafficking of women and minor girls.

The Home Minister said the bill has the provision to punish the police officials who fail to register FIRs. Similarly, hospitals refusing medical treatment to the victims of the sexual assaults are also liable for punishment.