New Delhi, March 20 (IANS): Top women leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday lauded the judiciary for delivering the justice in the Nirbhaya case. They, however, expressed concern over the delay in punishing convicts.

"It has been very long overdue. They should have been hanged seven years ago. I appeal to the government that such matters should have a speedy trial. Delay in justice sends a wrong message among the people that they can trick the law," said former Union Minister for Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi in Parliament.

Echoing the same sentiment, BJP MP Rita Bahuguna Joshi said, "It is a historic day today. It has sent a message to the people that no one will be spared at the hands of law if they commit a crime against women.

"Today her parents have got justice. They kept struggling. Her soul must be in peace today. There is a need to decide fast on such cruel cases. There should be a time frame of six months or one year in deciding such cases. Our government is trying for the same."

BJP Karnataka leader Shobha Karandlaje said, "Her mother ran from pillar to post. It is a proud moment for all of us. People's faith in the judicial system of this country has been reinstated.

"A strong message has gone in the public today that no one can escape the law. Justice delayed but ultimately served."