Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament (MP) Mimi Chakraborty has reported receiving rape threats on social media after participating in protests against the brutal rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and underscores the vulnerability of women, even while advocating for justice for another victim.
Chakraborty, along with fellow actors Riddhi Sen, Arindam Sil, and Madhumita Sarcar, joined the protests demanding capital punishment for those responsible for the doctor’s death. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), she shared screenshots of threatening messages directed at her, highlighting the normalization of such threats by individuals hiding behind anonymity.
“AND WE ARE DEMANDING JUSTICE FOR WOMEN RIGHT???? These are just few of them. Where rape threats has been normalised by venomous men masking themselves in the crowd saying they stand by women. What upbringing nd education permits this,” she wrote, tagging the Cyber Crime Cell of Kolkata Police (@DCCyberKP).
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with many users expressing their support for Chakraborty and demanding swift action against the perpetrators of these threats. Nilanjan Das, State General Secretary, IT & Social Media Wing of TMC, wrote, “A former MP receives rape threats! Alarming reminder of women’s vulnerability. @DCCyberKP , take action now to safeguard women’s safety.” Others pointed out the lack of urgency by the Kolkata police in addressing such crimes.
The brutal rape and murder of the trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has ignited nationwide protests and demands for stricter laws and punishment for perpetrators of sexual violence. Doctors across the nation have called for strikes and organized demonstrations, urging for justice for the victim and a crackdown on such heinous crimes.
The Supreme Court has intervened, ordering the removal of the victim’s name, photos, and videos from social media platforms to protect her privacy and dignity. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently investigating the case, which was initially classified as a suicide by West Bengal Police. The CBI is expected to submit a status report on August 22nd.
This case underscores the deep-rooted issue of violence against women in India and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address the root causes of such crimes, provide effective protection for victims, and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
