AP POLITICAL NEWS: Varudu Kalyani demands justice for rape victims

MLC and YSRCP Women’s Wing President Varudu Kalyani expressed outrage over two recent cases of sexual assault on minors in the Bheemili constituency, and demanded strict punishment for the perpetrators.Speaking at a press conference here on Wednesday, she criticized the coalition government for failing to ensure women’s safety in the state. She highlighted the alarming rise in crimes against women, blaming the unchecked proliferation of liquor sales and narcotics as major contributors. “Over 50,000 belt shops operate in the state, and 80% of the crimes against women are committed under the influence of alcohol. The government’s failure to act has emboldened criminals,” she stated.She also pointed out the inefficacy of the Disha initiative under the coalition government and accused it of sidelining women’s safety measures. “A case of cocaine has been filed in the Chief Minister’s residence district and ganja is rampant across the state, including the Home Minister’s constituency,” she added.The MLC warned of dire consequences if immediate steps were not taken to dismantle belt shops, curb liquor trade, and control narcotics. “If the government remains inactive, women will be forced to take action themselves to ensure their safety,” Kalyani said.She urged the government to restore the safety and dignity of women by implementing stringent policies and delivering justice to victims swiftly. Women in the state deserve to live without fear, she added.