The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday hit out at the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government over the gang rape of a second-year medical student from Odisha in Durgapur, accusing the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of complete lawlessness and failure to protect women in the state.
West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari launched a sharp attack on the state administration, alleging that the police machinery serves only the ruling party’s interests.
"No woman is safe in Bengal under Mamata Banerjee's government. Police only protect the CM and her tainted nephew, and extort money for TMC," he said, as quoted by news agency PTI.
The comments come amid nationwide outrage over the incident in the survivor from Odisha was gangraped in Durgapur on when she had stepped out with her male friend. Police have launched an investigation and are reportedly questioning multiple suspects.
Reacting to the crime, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi condemned the incident as “highly condemnable and painful” and urged Banerjee to ensure “exemplary action” against the accused.
Majhi added that the Odisha government would extend all possible assistance to the victim’s family.
"The unfortunate incident of gang rape involving an Odia student in Durgapur, West Bengal, is highly condemnable and painful. I am deeply shocked upon hearing this news.
In this sensitive matter, I strongly urge the Honorable Chief Minister of West Bengal,
@MamataOfficial, to take exemplary action against the accused as per the law," he said.
"I pray for the speedy recovery of the victim. Additionally, I have instructed senior officials to contact the West Bengal government and take necessary steps. All possible assistance will be provided to the victim's family on behalf of the Odisha government," the X post added.
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