Following the alleged gang rape of a law student in Kolkata, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee has sparked controversy with his remarks, raising questions about the role of police and personal responsibility in such incidents. The comments have drawn criticism for potentially deflecting institutional accountability.

Banerjee's initial statement, "What can be done if a friend rapes his friend? Will the police be in schools?" has been widely circulated and condemned. He further added, "This was done by students to another student. Who will protect her (victim)?". These remarks were made in response to queries about the alleged gang rape of a 24-year-old student at South Calcutta Law College. Banerjee also urged women to be cautious of individuals with "dirty mindsets".

The incident involves allegations that a first-year law student was gang-raped within the college premises by an alumnus and two senior students. The survivor's complaint detailed disturbing allegations, including threats of violence against her boyfriend and parents. She also alleged that one of the accused, Manojit Mishra, filmed the assault and attempted to strike her with a hockey stick.

The political ramifications of the case have been significant. Mishra has been identified as a former president of the Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad unit and has alleged connections with senior Trinamool figures. The BJP has released photos of Mishra with Trinamool leaders and accused the ruling party of providing "political protection for rapists".

In response to the controversy, Trinamool leaders have attempted to control the fallout. Bengal Women and Child Development Minister Shashi Panja stated that the accused will not be spared, regardless of affiliation and accused the BJP of blocking the Aparajita Bill, a proposal prescribing the death penalty for rape, at the national level.

If a friend rapes a friend, several courses of action can and should be taken:

• Prioritize the victim's safety and well-being: Ensure the survivor is in a safe environment and receives immediate medical and psychological support. Encourage them to seek medical attention for any physical injuries and offer resources for counseling and mental health services.
• Report the crime: Encourage the survivor to report the rape to the police. Provide them with support during the reporting process and ensure they understand their legal rights.
• Legal recourse: The survivor has the right to pursue legal action against the perpetrator. Connect them with legal resources and support them in navigating the legal system. This may include pressing charges and seeking restraining orders.
• Seek counseling and support: Rape is a deeply traumatic experience, and survivors often require ongoing therapy and support to heal. Connect the survivor with specialized counselors and support groups experienced in dealing with sexual assault.
• Break the silence: Encourage open conversations about sexual assault and consent to challenge harmful attitudes and prevent future incidents. Support organizations working to raise awareness and promote healthy relationships.
• Bystander intervention: Promote a culture of bystander intervention, where individuals are empowered to step in and prevent potential assaults. Educate people on how to recognize and respond to situations where someone may be at risk.
• Hold perpetrators accountable: It is crucial that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions through legal and social consequences. This sends a message that sexual assault will not be tolerated.
• Challenge victim-blaming: Combat victim-blaming attitudes and statements that place responsibility on the survivor rather than the perpetrator. Reinforce the message that rape is never the victim's fault.
• Advocate for policy changes: Support policies and legislation that strengthen protections for survivors of sexual assault and hold perpetrators accountable. Advocate for comprehensive sexual education programs that promote consent and healthy relationships.

In conclusion, while the Trinamool MP's remarks have sparked outrage and raised questions about accountability, it is essential to focus on supporting survivors, pursuing justice, and preventing future incidents of sexual assault through education, awareness, and policy changes.