Minor in gangrape should be given same punishment as other accused: Walia

"All those responsible, including the minor, must be extended the strictest punishment under the law," Delhi health minister said.

Delhi health minister A K Walia on Saturday said the minor, who was allegedly part of the group that gangraped a young paramedical student, should be given the same punishment as the other accused.

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"All those responsible, including the minor, must be extended the strictest punishment under the law," Walia said while inaugurating a cartoon exhibition on the issue of saving the girl child and the rising cases of crimes against women today.

After lighting a candle at the venue in memory of the 23-year-old Delhi gangrape victim, who died in a Singapore hospital on December 29 after battling for life for 13 days, Walia also favoured reduction of upper age limit for juveniles from 18 years to 16.

"Till now, people escape punishment because they are considered as minor under the law. I think the age limit for juveniles should be reduced to 16 years," he added.

Walia said the incident has brought shame to the country. "I feel ashamed that such an incident happened in the national capital."