The father of the trainee doctor who was tragically raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has voiced his deep frustration and anger, accusing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of hypocrisy in handling the case. The incident, which occurred last week, has sparked widespread outrage and protests across the state. However, the victim's father claims that these protests are being deliberately suppressed by the state government, even as the Chief Minister publicly expresses her support for justice.
Speaking to reporters in Kolkata on Sunday, the grieving father questioned Banerjee's actions, accusing her of engaging in "duplicity" by simultaneously protesting on the streets for his daughter while also taking steps to curb public demonstrations. "The Chief Minister speaks at length, walking the streets demanding justice for my daughter. Yet, at the same time, she attempts to suppress public anger. Why is she engaging in duplicity? Is she afraid of people? We have questions that need answers," he said, highlighting what he perceives as a contradiction in Banerjee's approach.
The father further alleged that the Bengal government is actively obstructing the statewide movement that has emerged in response to his daughter's brutal murder. He expressed his dismay that while some individuals are able to protest freely, others are finding their voices stifled by the authorities. "Those who are protesting freely are finding their voices stifled by the Chief Minister. While she herself takes to the streets in protest, she is simultaneously making arrangements to ensure that others' protests do not take place," he added.
The victim's mother also spoke out, appealing to the people of West Bengal, especially those who benefit from government schemes like Kanyashree and Lakshmi Bhandar, to consider their safety in the wake of such incidents. "They should think twice about their safety before accepting such benefits," she warned, implying that the government's focus on welfare schemes should not overshadow the need for safety and justice.
She also reiterated her demand for justice, making it clear that she would only accept financial compensation from the state government once those responsible for her daughter's death are brought to justice. "I call for the harshest punishment for those responsible. Only then will I consider the issue of financial compensation from the state government? Justice must come first, and only then will I accept any form of compensation," she stated firmly.
These remarks were made just hours after the Kolkata Police imposed prohibitory orders near RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, where the young doctor was found dead with multiple wounds on her body on August 9. The hospital has become the epicenter of protests, with the police now enforcing Section 163(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, which bans the assembly of more than five persons in the area extending from the hospital to the Shyambazar five-point crossing.
This latest development has only intensified the public's demand for justice, with many questioning the state's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens, particularly women. As the family of the victim continues to seek answers and justice, the larger conversation about women's safety and the role of government in protecting its citizens remains at the forefront of public discourse in West Bengal.
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