Keenan’s father writes open letter to PM

Valerian Santos, father of Keenan Santos, who along with Reuben Fernandes was brutally murdered at Amboli last year, sent a letter to the prime minister on Monday, demanding stronger laws to ensure better security of women.

Valerian Santos, father of Keenan Santos, who along with Reuben Fernandes was brutally murdered at Amboli last year, sent a letter to the prime minister on Monday, demanding stronger laws to ensure better security of women.

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Santos extended his support to Delhi’s youth, who “brought the issue to the forefront with the help of the nation’s media.”

Santos also put forward “certain demands and recommendations to address the growing menace of all forms of sexual harassment in the country.”

Among the suggestions is the amendment to section 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and 509 (word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), making it cognisable, non-bailable and non-compoundable across India.

He also suggested that “the central government should issue directives to the concerned committees… to come up with a well-drafted legislation for women’s safety within three months.”

The letter suggests a fast-track court should be attached to every sessions court, and also draws the need for sensitisation of police.

Finally, it talks about a mechanism that would empower women by informing them about their rights and existing laws.