Take stringent action against rapists: Amjad Ali Khan

Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan today expressed concern over increasing rape incidents in the country and asked the government to take stringent action against the culprits.

"We respect women in India and consider the country as Bharat Mata. But 'matas' are being raped, which is very disturbing," he said. He said there should be a decisive action to put an end to this problem and "serious punishment" should be meted out to those found guilty. 

Khan, who is scheduled to perform at a concert here tonight along with his two sons and famous violinist, Jcqueline Shave of UK's Britten Sinfonia orchestra, said music has maintained freedom with discipline over 5,000 years, and wanted the people to maintain the same discipline.

In the South the discipline is maintained, but it is missing in some northern parts, he said, apparently referring to fewer rape cases in South India as compared to the North. He said, "ragas in music are descending and ascending but in the society, we have to maintain the discipline." Khan also said that the technological advancements have brought many new innovative and advanced systems like mobile phone, but nobody could find the 13th note in music. 

Khan was speaking on the sidelines of launching the website of diamond brand, 'Kirtilals' here.