At least four women were raped in Maharashtra every day in 2012, the state legislative Assembly was informed.
Altogether 1,704 incidents of rape were reported in the the state in 2012, out of which 924 victims, more than half, were minor girls.u00a0
In a written reply to a question asked by Anil Kadam (Shiv Sena), Home Minister R R Patil said 127 victims were girls below the age of 12, while 188 were aged between 12 and 14 years.u00a0
ADVERTISEMENT
u00a0
The minister said 14,414 rape cases, 31,412 cases of molestation and 9,480 of eve-teasing were pending in courts.u00a0
u00a0
u00a0
In order to increase the conviction rate, the government has appointed legal officers in all courts who will act as coordinators between the complainants, witnesses and prosecution lawyers, he said.u00a0
u00a0
Between 2005 and 2011, there were 10,837 incidents of rape in the state, Patil said adding, for speedy trial of cases of crime against women, 13 special courts have been set up.u00a0
u00a0
The government has also decided to start 100 fast track courts over the next five years. Cases pending for more than a year will be tried in fast track courts, he said.u00a0
u00a0
Out of the 100 fast track courts proposed, process of setting aside 25 courts for trial of cases of crime against women is underway, he added.
"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels 
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
