Chandigarh: Former Chief Minister of Punjab Parkash Singh Badal today demanded death penalty for rape convicts while seeking strictest provisions in the for safety of women.

"Rape convicts must be hanged and ways must be found to put a permanent end to incidents of atrocities against women in the country," Badal, who is also the patron of the Shiromani Akali Dal, said.

Against the backdrop of the Unnao and Kathua rape cases, the SAD stalwart said no mercy should be shown even to those who support the accused.

"The dignity of a woman is the first mark of a civilised country. In that respect, we need to get together to ensure that the severest and prompt punishment is handed down to those indulging in inhuman crimes against women and also those supporting these criminals," a party release quoted Badal as saying.

Expressing concern over the "communal atmosphere" in the country, Badal said peace and harmony need to be the top priority of all governments whether at the centre or in states.

He said the government needs to demonstrate its resolve to deal with those trying to endanger communal bonds and disturb peace.

Badal also emphasised on the need for ensuring social justice and taking steps to end discrimination against the poor, the backwards and the scheduled classes.

Badal also referred to the "growing spectre of unemployment among the youth in the country" and said while the governments cannot provide jobs to everyone, they could certainly create conditions in which the youth is skilled to enhance their employability.  PTI