Amidst escalating protests over the horrific rape and murder of a Kolkata doctor, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday vehemently denied offering any financial compensation to the victim’s family. She characterized these allegations as slander, stating that she had merely expressed the government’s support to the family if they wished to pursue initiatives in their daughter’s memory.
Simultaneously, Banerjee revealed that Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal had offered his resignation following the unrest at RG Kar Hospital. She explained that the government needed a police commissioner well-versed in law and order management, especially in the lead-up to the Durga Puja festival.
Banerjee further accused the central government and certain Left parties of orchestrating a conspiracy against the Trinamool Congress government, capitalizing on the prevailing turmoil. She suggested that external forces were exploiting the situation for political gain, forgetting the distinct identities of India and Bangladesh.
Earlier on Monday, the Supreme Court, taking cognizance of the situation, ordered the CBI to submit a fresh status report on the case by September 17. The apex court emphasized that no disciplinary action should be taken against doctors returning to work by 5 PM on Tuesday. However, it clarified that it could not restrain the state government from taking action against doctors who failed to resume their duties.
The Supreme Court’s decision comes after it previously questioned the West Bengal police regarding several critical aspects of the investigation. The court highlighted alleged lapses in the handling of the case, including delays in filing the FIR, releasing the victim’s body to her family, and neglecting the safety of medical staff during a mob attack.
The ongoing investigation and the Supreme Court’s intervention underscore the gravity of the case and the urgency for justice. The situation remains fluid, with protests continuing and pressure mounting on the West Bengal government to address the public’s concerns and ensure accountability for the heinous crime.
