The aftermath of the Kolkata law student rape case has been marred by controversial remarks from Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders, sparking widespread outrage and accusations of victim-blaming. The incident, which involved the alleged gang rape of a 24-year-old student at South Calcutta Law College, has ignited a political firestorm in West Bengal, with the BJP accusing the ruling TMC of protecting rapists.

Adding fuel to the controversy, TMC MLA Madan Mitra stated that the incident "could have been avoided if the victim had not gone or taken friends along with her". He further elaborated, "If that girl had not gone, this would not have happened… If she had informed someone or taken two friends along, this could have been avoided". These remarks have been widely condemned as victim-blaming and insensitive.

Mitra sought to clarify his statement by suggesting that his comments were meant as a message to girls to avoid going out when called to college after hours. He stated, "This incident should serve as a message to girls — if someone calls you when the college is closed…don't go. Nothing good can come of it… The person who did this took advantage of the situation…". He also claimed that the prime accused in the case was no longer associated with the TMC, despite reports identifying him as a former member of the party's youth wing.

Earlier, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee also drew flak for his remarks on the case, questioning how the government could provide protection if "a friend rapes his friend". "What can be done if a friend rapes his friend? Will the police be in schools? This was done by students to another student. Who will protect her (victim)?" he asked. Banerjee's comments were criticized for downplaying the seriousness of the crime and deflecting accountability. He also stated that women's safety is at stake because of the mentality of men.

In response to the widespread criticism, the TMC publicly distanced itself from both Banerjee and Mitra's remarks. The party stated that the comments were made in their "personal capacities" and that the party "unequivocally disassociates itself from their statements and strongly condemns the same".

The BJP has seized upon the controversy, using it to attack the TMC and accuse the ruling party of being a "protector of rapists". BJP leaders shared images of the prime accused with TMC leadership, alleging a connection between the party and the accused. BJP spokesperson Amit Malviya called Mitra's comments "vile" and "victim-blaming," stating, "No woman is safe from these TMC predators… Mamata Banerjee isn't just complicit, she is the problem".

The incident and the subsequent remarks have sparked renewed debates about women's safety, accountability, and the need for sensitization in public discourse. The case has also highlighted the issue of misogyny across party lines, with TMC MP Mahua Moitra openly criticizing her party colleagues for their controversial remarks.