Dr K. A. Paul has condemned the alleged attack on a 14-year-old girl in Andhra Pradesh and called for stronger protection for women and children
New Delhi: Dr. K. A. Paul has condemned the alleged attack on a 14-year-old schoolgirl in Raptadu, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, and demanded strict legal action against the accused. The President of the Global Peace Initiative and Praja Shanti Party also called for stronger measures to protect women and children across the country.
In a statement issued on November 2, 2026, Paul expressed concern over reports that a 21-year-old man allegedly attacked the girl after she rejected his romantic advances. He demanded swift justice for the victim and said no woman should face violence for refusing a relationship or marriage proposal.
Calls for Respect and Equal Treatment Under Law
Paul said society must respect a woman’s right to reject a relationship. He stressed that love, marriage and physical relationships cannot involve force or threats.
He also questioned the implementation of existing laws and highlighted concerns about police accountability, delays in investigations and the backlog of cases in Indian courts.
Referring to Article 14 of the Constitution, he said every person must receive equal treatment under the law, regardless of wealth, political influence, caste or family background.
Refers to Supreme Court Directions Under POCSO
Paul referred to the Supreme Court’s directions dated July 25, 2019, in Suo Motu Writ Petition (Criminal) No. 1 of 2019. The directions concern timely investigations and speedy trials in cases involving sexual offences against children under the POCSO Act.
He called for effective implementation of measures such as dedicated special courts, monitoring by High Court committees and special police task forces.
Seven Reforms Proposed for Women’s and Children’s Safety
Paul outlined seven demands to strengthen the response to crimes against women and children:
- Fast-track courts: Establish adequate dedicated courts to support timely investigations and speedy trials.
- Police accountability: Take disciplinary or legal action against officers who neglect their duties or deliberately delay investigations.
- Equal justice: Ensure that influential people receive the same treatment under the law as ordinary citizens.
- Media and parliamentary accountability: Encourage media organisations to report wrongdoing and elected representatives to raise cases of injustice.
- Parental responsibility: Encourage parents to guide children about online exposure, friendships, discipline and responsible behaviour.
- Respect for women: Educate young people about consent and respect for women’s choices.
- Victim support: Strengthen cooperation among social activists, women’s organisations and human rights groups to provide legal and other assistance.
Appeals to Government and Judiciary
Paul appealed to the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, chief ministers, state home ministers, judiciary, police leadership and Members of Parliament to take steps to prevent such crimes.
He also urged civil society and the media to support efforts to improve women’s and children’s safety. He said India cannot achieve lasting peace and development unless women and children feel safe at home, in schools and in public spaces.
