West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has issued a stern warning as tensions escalate following the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Speaking at a public event, Banerjee cautioned that unrest in Bengal could trigger wider disturbances across neighboring states.
“Remember, if Bengal burns, then Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Delhi will also be affected,” Banerjee stated, addressing her political opponents amid growing criticism over her handling of the situation. Opposition parties have accused her of failing to maintain law and order in the state.
Kolkata: CM Mamata Banerjee says, "Remember if Bengal is burned, then Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Delhi will also be burned" pic.twitter.com/zwg8ZOnR9p
— IANS (@ians_india) August 28, 2024
Banerjee also criticized those she believes are attempting to destabilize Bengal, making a clear distinction between India and Bangladesh. “Some people think this is Bangladesh. Please remember, I love Bangladesh; their culture is similar to ours, but Bangladesh is a separate nation, and India is a separate nation,” she said.
In a pointed remark aimed at Prime Minister Modi, Banerjee accused his party of fueling unrest in Bengal. “Mr. Modi, you’re using your party to cause trouble here. If Bengal burns, other states like Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha will be affected too,” she declared.
The incident on August 9, initially dismissed as a suicide, has sparked widespread protests, legal actions, and a national outcry for justice. The case has become a flashpoint for public anger, with increasing demands for accountability.
Tensions peaked on August 27 during the ‘Nabanna Abhijan’ protest march, organized by the Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj and Sangrami Joutha Mancha. What began as a peaceful demonstration soon turned violent as protesters clashed with police in Kolkata and Howrah, leading to the use of tear gas, water cannons, and lathi charges by law enforcement.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its investigation, conducting lie-detection tests on key suspects, including the main accused, Sanjay Roy. The probe has also extended to potential cover-ups by hospital staff and local police. The Supreme Court, having taken suo motu cognizance of the case, highlighted significant lapses in the initial investigation and has ordered a thorough inquiry.
