Need More Submissions From NGOs And Religious Organisation
Alvick Maharaj has urged non-government organisations and faith-based organisations to give their input and submissions on the Sex Offenders’ Registration Bill and the Public Enterprises Bill of 2019.
The chairperson of the Standing Committee for Justice, Law and Human Rights said, “We have been requesting NGOs to come out in numbers and religious organisations to give in their views and input because they are the ones when something happens they start to make the loudest noise and when we are collecting submissions they do not turn up.
“So this is the time for them to give in their input when we are drafting this particular Bill and collecting submissions so we request them to come on board.”
Two submissions have been made, one from the Sanatan Fiji National Vice President West and Lautoka businessman, Keshwa Shrama, on the Sex Offender Registration Bill and another submission came from an Opposition Member of Parliament who is a resident of Lautoka, Jese Saukuru on the Public Enterprises Bill.
Chairperson of the Standing Committee for Justice, Law and Human Rights Alvick Maharaj (third from left), with committee members and representatives of religious organisations at Lautoka City Council Chambers on April 10, 2019. Photo: Rohit Kumar.
Mr Sharma while making his submission said that his organisation supports the Sex Offenders Registration Bill and everyone should give a thumbs up to the Government for this introduction.
“It is good for our upcoming generation and safety of our women and men too,” he said.
He further stated that most of the Bills that used to be introduced were for the safety of women, but this Bill looks at offences committed against both sexes.
Mr Sharma said he aired his frustration that some cases take too long in the Courts, but after talking to the Committee, he realised that none of the Judges or the prosecutors want to prosecute the wrong person and put them behind bars.
He said he is glad that the Bill is going to give a fair trial to alleged perpetrators of sexual offences.
Edited by Susana Tuilau
