West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has rejected allegations that she threatened junior doctors who are protesting over the recent rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata. Banerjee, leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), claims that the accusations against her are part of a “malicious disinformation campaign.”
In a statement on X, Banerjee emphasized, “I have not uttered a single word against the medical students or their movement. I fully support their cause and never threatened them.” She explained that her call for doctors to return to work was meant to address the ongoing crisis while expressing concern for their future professional opportunities.
The protest, which began after the tragic death of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College & Hospital on August 9, has seen widespread demonstrations across the country. Doctors have been demanding justice for their colleague.
During a Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad rally, Banerjee noted her reluctance to file FIRs against the striking doctors, citing potential negative impacts on their careers. However, this remark was interpreted by the protesting doctors as a veiled threat.
The BJP has criticized Banerjee’s response. BJP leader Amit Malviya accused her of deepening the controversy with her clarification. On X, he wrote, “Shame on her for threatening medical students who are demanding justice for their colleague.”
The ongoing clash highlights the tension between the state government and the medical community as both sides navigate the fallout from the tragic incident and the ensuing protests.
