Rape protest: ire justified, violence not, says PM

As New Delhi was virtually locked down on the seventh consecutive day of protests over the brutal 17 December rape of a young woman on a moving bus, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today finally broke his silence on the issue, appealing for peace.

"Anger for this crime is justified but not violence. Let's pray for her and her loved ones," he said in a brief televised address. "I assure you that we will make all possible efforts to ensure security and safety to all women in this country." the Prime Minister added in his address.

He gave an assurance that the government "will examine into the delay not only the responses to this terrible crime but also all aspects concerning the safety and security of women."

"As a father of three daughters myself, I feel as strongly about this as each one of you. My wife, my family and I are all joined in our concern for the young woman who was the survivor of this heinous crime," he said. "I appeal to all sections of the society to maintain peace and help us in our efforts."

The prime minister also expressed anguish over the turn of events that led to clashes between the angry protesters and the police at India Gate on Sunday.

"We are all joined in our concern for the young woman who was the victim of a heinous crime in Delhi. There is genuine and justified anger and anguish at this ghastly incident.