West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress (TMC) general secretary Abhishek Banerjee have jointly called for tougher anti-rape legislation. Their remarks came during the foundation day rally of the TMC’s student wing, the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), held in Kolkata on Wednesday.
This marks the first public appearance of the two leaders since the tragic case of a trainee doctor’s alleged rape and murder at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The incident has faced intense scrutiny and criticism of the state government's handling of the case.
Abhishek Banerjee criticized the central government, urging the Parliament to pass a law that would expedite the trial and conviction of rape cases. He emphasized the need for legislation that mandates swift trials and immediate convictions for the guilty.
He said, “Isn’t it necessary to have a strict anti-rape law that ensures trials are completed within one or two months, and that those found guilty are swiftly convicted?” Abhishek also challenged critics calling for Mamata Banerjee’s resignation, suggesting that they should push Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP President JP Nadda to enact such a law. He warned that if such legislation is passed, BJP leaders would be the first to face justice.
Mamata Banerjee echoed these sentiments, dedicating the TMCP foundation day to victims and survivors of rape nationwide, including the recent case from RG Kar Medical College Hospital and other incidents in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Assam, Rajasthan, and Manipur.
The Chief Minister proposed convening a special session of the state assembly to introduce a bill imposing capital punishment for convicted rapists. She stated that the bill would be sent to the Governor, who she expects will sign it despite possible objections. If the Governor refuses, Banerjee warned that women would protest outside the Governor’s residence until the bill is signed.
Banerjee also criticized the recent release of Bilkis Bano’s rapists, who were later reimprisoned by the Supreme Court of India. She questioned the logic behind releasing such criminals after long periods, calling for a review of such decisions.
Additionally, Banerjee addressed the issue of misinformation and AI-generated content on social media related to the RG Kar incident. She urged her party members to actively combat fake news and misinformation spread by political opponents.
In her criticism of the investigation, Banerjee lamented the decision to hand over the case to the CBI, noting that it has been 16 days since the agency took charge with no significant progress. She vowed to continue the fight for justice for the victim.
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