West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has taken a strong stance against the alleged rape and murder of a 10-year-old girl in South 24 Parganas district. Addressing the Kolkata Police Body Guard Lines after inaugurating several Durga Pujas virtually, Banerjee directed the police to register the case under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. She demanded swift justice, calling for the culprits to be sentenced to death within a period of three months.
Banerjee emphasized that crime transcends any boundaries of color, caste, or religion, stating, “Crime is crime; there is no religion or caste. Strong action should be taken against the criminals.”
The Chief Minister also expressed her disapproval of “media trials” in rape cases, urging for their cessation as they can potentially hinder investigations. She believes that such trials can create undue pressure and prejudice, impacting the integrity of the judicial process.
The incident that sparked this outrage occurred on Saturday in the Kultuli area of South 24 Parganas. The body of the 10-year-old girl was discovered, bearing the horrific signs of rape and murder. In response to this heinous act, locals erupted in anger, setting fire to a police outpost and vandalizing vehicles parked in the vicinity.
The case has shaken the state and sparked widespread condemnation. With the Chief Minister’s strong directives, the police are now under immense pressure to deliver swift and decisive justice to the victim and her family. This case serves as a grim reminder of the need for stringent measures to combat the menace of child sexual abuse and ensure the safety and security of vulnerable populations.
