'Women’s safety must be top priority': Swati Maliwal’s letter to WB CM Mamata Banerjee

Swati Maliwal urged Mamata Banerjee to prioritize the protection of women, noting that the nation is watching her response.

Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal wrote to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, expressing her anger over the handling of an alleged rape and murder case at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. Maliwal, a former Delhi Commission for Women chief, criticized Banerjee, stating that as the only woman chief minister in India, there were higher expectations from her.

Despite Mamata Banerjee’s commendable efforts in advancing women’s roles in politics, Maliwal expressed deep despair over the incident, particularly as it coincided with Independence Day, highlighting the ongoing threat to women's safety. She urged Banerjee to prioritize the protection of women, noting that the nation is watching her response.

The letter in the wake of discovery of a woman post-graduate trainee’s body at the hospital on August 9. A civic volunteer has been arrested in connection with the crime, sparking protests by junior doctors across West Bengal, disrupting healthcare services. The doctors are demanding justice, a magisterial probe, and the removal of senior officials from the hospital.

"Today, as our great nation celebrates Independence Day, a day meant to symbolize freedom, justice, and equality for all, I find myself grappling with a profound sense of despair. How can we truly celebrate when the very fabric of our society is torn by such unspeakable acts of brutality? How can we rejoice in our independence when the women of our country are not free from the fear of rape and murder? This horrific crime casts a dark shadow over our celebrations," Maliwal's letter read.

Maliwal, in her letter, also made a plea to Banerjee, stating, "Most importantly, I urge you to make protecting the women of West Bengal and this country your utmost priority. The eyes of the nation are upon you, and history will remember how you respond to this moment of crisis," She further said.