After the alleged rape of a 24-year-old student in Kolkata by a former TMC student leader, party MP Kalyan Banerjee Friday said that police personnel can’t be deployed in every college and that men should “save their female colleagues”. He also called upon women to “stand against such crimes”.
Banerjee said: “Police cannot be deployed in every college. Male colleagues should be alert and save their female colleagues. Some perverted persons are committing such crimes. Strong action should be taken against them. On the other hand, women should also stand against such crimes.”
The case has triggered a political storm in West Bengal with the Opposition BJP and the Left questioning the TMC government. While the prime accused Manojit Mishra was a Trinamool Chhatra Parishad leader during his time as a student, the ruling party has distanced itself, saying he is no longer associated with them.
The TMC reiterated its demand for the Aparijtha Anti-Rape Bill, which was first mooted after the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case.
Holding that the “full weight of the law will be brought to bear” against the accused, the TMC posted on X: “We unequivocally condemn the tragic rape incident at (the college). Kolkata Police have swiftly apprehended all three accused, and the full weight of the law will be brought to bear, ensuring the most severe measures are imposed on those found guilty…
“This tragedy once again underscores the urgent need for the implementation of the Aparajita Anti-Rape Bill to establish a strong deterrent against sexual offences, emphasising the necessity for speedy investigations, swift trials, and stringent punishments. It is extremely unfortunate that the BJP government at the Centre has not lifted a finger to get it implemented.”
The TMC continued:“… Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for the profound trauma endured by the victim. The state administration, under Hon’ble Chief Minister Mamaa Banerjee, is committed to providing every possible form of support and assistance to the victim during this distressing time. Justice will be served.”
