West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is facing severe criticism and backlash following her remarks regarding the recent gang-rape of a medical student in Durgapur. The incident, which occurred on Friday night near a private medical college in Shobhapur, Durgapur, involved a 23-year-old second-year MBBS student who was allegedly attacked while returning from dinner with a friend.
Banerjee's initial response to the incident has sparked outrage, with many accusing her of victim-blaming. She questioned why the student was out late at night and suggested that the private medical college should bear responsibility for the student's safety. "How did she come out at 12.30 am?" Banerjee questioned, also adding that female students, especially those from outside the state, should adhere to hostel rules and avoid venturing out late at night.
In response to the backlash, Banerjee has accused the media of distorting her words and taking them out of context. "My address at Dum Dum Airport has been deliberately distorted... when I answer, my words are twisted and taken out of context. Do not try this nasty politics with me," the Chief Minister stated. She also referenced a past gang-rape incident in Odisha, questioning the actions taken by the Odisha government in that case.
The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly condemned Banerjee's remarks, accusing her of victim-shaming and blaming her government for the deteriorating law and order situation in West Bengal. BJP leaders have staged protests and demanded Banerjee's resignation. Suvendu Adhikari, a prominent BJP leader, reached out to the victim's father, assuring him of support in seeking justice. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPM] has also criticized Banerjee for attempting to shift the blame onto the private medical college.
Meanwhile, police have arrested multiple suspects in connection with the Durgapur gang-rape case. Three of the arrested suspects have been identified as Apu Bauri, Sheikh Firdous, and Sheikh Riyazuddin. According to reports, another person named Sheikh Nasir Uddin has also been arrested. The arrested individuals are reportedly residents of the Bijra locality, near the forest where the crime occurred.
The victim, who is originally from Jaleswar in Odisha, is currently undergoing treatment. Her father has filed a police complaint, and authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against the culprits.
The Durgapur gang-rape case has triggered widespread condemnation and political protests, with concerns raised about women's safety and security in West Bengal. The incident has also reignited memories of past rape cases in the state, further fueling public anger and demands for accountability.
