New Delhi, April 20: Looking at the recent atrocities that have happened with minor girls in the last few months, the Centre today said it has begun the process to ensure those convicted of child rape get the death penalty, as reported by ANI. The report further highlights that Centre told the Supreme Court (SC) that it will ensure an amendment to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) to ensure the maximum punishment of the death penalty in cases of the rape of children of up to 12 years of age. Reportedly, the Centre's remark to the SC came in response to a PIL filed on the issue. The next hearing is scheduled to take place on April 27.

On Thursday, another rape incident, involving a minor was reported  from Siddharthnagar in Uttar Pradesh. According to ANI, a 6-year-old girl was allegedly raped in Chilhiya Police Station limits, when she went out to see a 'baaraat' (marriage) procession. The accused, who is from the same village has been been arrested. On Wednesday, reports of a 12-year old mentally challenged girl in West Delhi being raped by her neighbour came up. Post the heinous incident, the rape video was shared on WhatsApp to the victim's family.

There has been widespread protests, where celebrities and politicians have come to the streets condemning the rise in rape incidents in the country and are demanding stringent punishments for the guilty. Infact, today International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde spoke about India’s deplorable situation when it comes to women security. Describing the latest incident of the outrageous rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in India as "revolting", IMF chief said she hoped that the Indian authorities starting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would pay more attention to it. "I would hope that the Indian authorities, starting with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi, pay more attention, because it is needed for the women of India," a visibly angry Lagarde said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 20, 2018 12:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).