In West Bengal, tensions have escalated following the tragic rape and murder of a female doctor, leading to significant political and social unrest. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of attempting to create chaos and undermine democracy with support from the Union government. She voiced her concerns on social media, clarifying that her comments during a recent speech were aimed solely at the BJP.
On Wednesday, the opposition BJP called for a 12-hour strike, known as “Bangla Bandh,” which partially disrupted daily life across the state. The police detained 64 individuals, including several BJP leaders and workers, for attempting to enforce the bandh, as the ruling Trinamool Congress had urged people to ignore it. While the BJP claimed the bandh was successful, the TMC argued that it had little impact.
President Droupadi Murmu also spoke out about the incident, expressing frustration and calling for a change in attitudes towards women, highlighting the broader issue of violence against women in the country.
In response to the crime, Mamata Banerjee’s cabinet is set to propose a new Bill in the state assembly next week, aimed at tougher penalties for rape. However, the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum, which has been on strike for 20 days, rejected her call to return to work. They insist on justice for the victim and the suspension of Dr. Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College, and the Kolkata police commissioner.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has begun polygraph tests on Assistant Sub-Inspector Anup Dutta, who is linked to Dr. Ghosh. The CBI is investigating the rape and murder as well as potential corruption. Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate is examining possible money laundering involving Dr. Ghosh.
