Kolkata, Mar. 16 (ANI): Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy on Saturday said that he was opposed to lowering the age of consent for sex from 18 to 16 years as cleared by the Union Cabinet.
Roy, however, said it was his personal opinion and not that of the TMC.
"Our party has not taken a decision in the matter. But personally, I feel that lowering of the age of consent is not right. If a person votes at 18, can be legally married at 18, then why the age of consent (be) 16 years. But this is my personal opinion, the party will take a position," he told media here.
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2013, which has been brought against the backdrop of the 16th December Delhi gang-rape incident, provides for minimum jail term of 20 years for rape which may be extended to 'natural life' of the convict in jail.
The bill also provides for lowering the age of consent for sex from 18 to 16 years.
The bill uses the term 'rape' which will be gender- specific, in contrast to the gender-neutral 'sexual assault' as proposed in the ordinance.
There is also provision for death sentence if the victim dies or is left in a 'persistent vegetative state'. (ANI)
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