West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has found herself in the crosshairs of criticism over her decision to delay the resignation of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal. This comes amidst protests demanding Goyal’s removal, fueled by the recent rape case involving a doctor in Kolkata.
On Monday, Banerjee, the supremo of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), revealed that despite Goyal offering his resignation, she had declined it. Her reasoning? Maintaining law and order during the ongoing festive season. She stated that Goyal’s knowledge of Kolkata’s streets and his ability to manage the situation were crucial during this time.
“The Police Commissioner came to me to tender his resignation… How can I accept that before Durga Puja? He knows all the roads of Kolkata and how to control the situation. After the festive season, we can think about this,” Banerjee was quoted as saying by the Indian Express at a meeting on Monday.
This statement, however, has further fueled the controversy, with many viewing it as a direct confirmation of her role in delaying Goyal’s departure. Notably, one of the key demands of the protestors in the wake of the doctor rape case was the resignation of the Kolkata Police Commissioner.
Banerjee’s decision to keep Goyal in his position, despite calls for his removal, has ignited a debate on her commitment to addressing concerns of public safety and accountability within the police force. It remains to be seen what impact this decision will have on the ongoing protests and the broader political landscape in West Bengal.
