Bihar BJP President Dilip Jaiswal has launched a scathing attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following the alleged gangrape of a 24-year-old law student at South Calcutta Law College. Calling the incident a reflection of “rising arrogance” within the Trinamool Congress-led government, Jaiswal demanded the immediate dismissal of the state government and fresh elections in the state.
Speaking to ANI on Sunday, Jaiswal criticised Banerjee for her “indifference” toward public safety. “Mamata Banerjee’s arrogance is increasing. She is worried neither about the country nor the state,” he said, recalling the previous RG Kar Medical College rape and murder case that “shook the whole of Bengal.”
Jaiswal added, “This government must be deposed immediately. People should be given a chance to vote freely. Such autocratic rule cannot be allowed to continue.”
The BJP leader’s remarks come in the wake of a political firestorm following the June 25 incident, where the law student alleged she was raped by three men, including an alumnus of the college. The survivor also claimed the college security guard failed to intervene. Four people, including the guard, have been arrested.
The case has sparked massive protests in Kolkata. BJP workers staged demonstrations outside the Lalbazar Police Headquarters, demanding justice for the victim. State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar, who was detained during the protest, was later released and criticised the Mamata government for “sleeping while women suffer.”
Meanwhile, the BJP has formed a four-member fact-finding committee, under the direction of party president JP Nadda, to investigate the matter. The National Commission for Women has also taken suo motu cognisance of the incident and sought a time-bound investigation.
With accusations mounting that the accused have political connections to the ruling TMC, opposition leaders have renewed calls for Mamata Banerjee’s resignation, alleging a complete breakdown of law and order in the state.