West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to introduce strict central legislation with severe punishments for perpetrators of rape. 

In a letter read out by her Chief Advisor Alapan Bandopadhyay at a press conference, Banerjee emphasized the need for exemplary measures in light of the recent rape and murder of a woman doctor at a hospital in Kolkata. 

She pointed out the alarming frequency of rapes across the country, citing data that shows nearly 90 rape cases occur every day.

"It is horrifying to see this trend. It shakes the confidence and conscience of society and the nation. It is our bounden duty to put an end to it so that women feel safe and secure. Such a serious and sensitive issue needs to be addressed comprehensively through stringent central legislation that prescribes exemplary punishment for those involved in these dastardly crimes," stated the letter.

Banerjee's call for stringent laws comes amidst nationwide protests over the safety of women.