The gruesome murder of a post-graduate trainee doctor in Kolkata has ignited a political firestorm in West Bengal. The victim, found raped and murdered at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, has become the focal point of a bitter exchange between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Sukanta Majumdar, the Union Minister of State and BJP West Bengal unit President, has accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of delaying a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the case. Majumdar claims that Banerjee’s reluctance is hindering the investigation, as evidence can easily be lost over time. “The CM is delaying it—if she wants a CBI inquiry in this matter, she should hand it over soon as proofs in such cases do not remain for many days,” said Majumdar, according to ANI.
However, the TMC has vehemently defended Banerjee’s actions, highlighting the swift arrest of the accused within 24 hours of the crime. TMC leader Kunal Ghosh asserted that Banerjee is committed to justice, describing her as the ‘mother of Bengal.’ Ghosh stated that Banerjee has ordered a fast-track trial for the case and is seeking capital punishment for the assailant. He further added that Banerjee has given the police until Sunday to complete their investigation.
Ghosh also directed blame towards the BJP-led government at the center, citing similar heinous crimes that occurred across India during their tenure. “Under BJP rule, Unnao, Hathras, Prayagraj, Gujarat, Bilkis, MP, Manipur all of it happened one after another. This shouldn’t have happened in Bengal, but it happened. It is a social crime. The CM said on day one that the case would be handed over to the CBI if needed,” said Ghosh.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has joined the chorus of voices demanding justice for the victim, protesting against the crime and calling for an impartial investigation. They have also demanded that the West Bengal government ensure the maximum punishment for the perpetrator.
The doctor’s murder has become a symbol of escalating political tensions in West Bengal, with the BJP and TMC engaging in a blame game amidst a climate of public outrage and demand for justice. The case continues to unfold, with the outcome of the investigation and the potential for political fallout remaining uncertain.
