Kolkata: Amid the widespread outrage over the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s recent remarks have drawn sharp criticism. Speaking to the media yesterday, the Trinamool Congress leader urged people to “return to (Durga) Pujo” and the festivities, while calling on the CBI to expedite justice for the August 9 incident.
Addressing the ongoing protests demanding justice, which have gripped Bengal for the past month, Banerjee said, “Protesting on the roads every night causes disturbance to many. Several areas have elderly residents who are affected by the use of microphones, which violates pollution control norms after 10 pm. We’ve been lenient, but it’s been a month now.”
She stated that the investigation is now in the hands of the CBI. “The woman who was raped and murdered must receive justice. A fast-track court should ensure it. Bengal’s reputation is being tarnished globally. There are WhatsApp groups where people who studied and lived here, but have moved away, are now defaming Bengal,” she said.
The victim’s parents sharply reacted to her remarks. “What about our festivities when we’ve lost our daughter? Let her bring our daughter back. Would she have said the same if this happened in her own family?”
“We celebrated Durga Puja with our daughter, but we won’t celebrate Puja or any other festival for years to come. Her comments are insensitive,” they said, as reported by PTI.
Opposition parties, including the BJP and CPM, condemned the Chief Minister’s statements.
BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in the Bengal Assembly, questioned if the Chief Minister saw people as puppets. “Do you think they will stand, sit, celebrate, and stop protesting at your command? The Pujo fortnight hasn’t begun yet, the demon is yet to be slayed. Be patient, the Mother’s power has awakened, and it will cleanse Bengal,” he posted on X.
Senior CPM leader Sujan Chakraborty remarked, “Her only hope is that the mass protests will die down, and people will shift to a celebratory mood, ignoring safety and security concerns.”
