On Tuesday (September 3, 2024), a bill was presented in the West Bengal Assembly that proposes the death penalty for rapists. During the session, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee spoke strongly against rape, calling it a poison in society. She mentioned that she personally writes about such incidents and had also done so when a similar incident occurred in Kolkata.
Mamata Banerjee pointed out that on this day 43 years ago, the United Nations established a committee to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women. She praised all those advocating for women’s safety, from civil societies to students.
Criticism of BJP’s Response
Mamata Banerjee criticized the BJP for remaining silent about rape cases involving their own members. She questioned why BJP remains quiet when its members are accused of rape and why the focus often shifts to attacking the victims instead of ensuring justice. She cited various incidents in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Odisha, and other places where the perpetrators received leniency and the victims faced extreme consequences.
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Concerns About the Central Government
She also criticized the central government for not consulting state governments while passing new laws. Mamata Banerjee stated that she wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi but received no response. She mentioned that during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure as Prime Minister, a law created in Bengal was adopted nationwide. She expressed frustration that new laws are passed without discussions with state governments or their police forces, which forced Bengal to introduce its own bill for the sake of respect and justice.
Comments on BJP Leaders and Issues
Mamata Banerjee addressed BJP leaders, saying that unlike BJP, her party, the Trinamool Congress, does not use abusive language against the Prime Minister or BJP leaders. She also criticized the BJP for honoring criminals, referring to an incident where Bilkis Bano’s rapists were garlanded.
Vinesh Phogat’s Alleged Plot
Lastly, Mamata Banerjee mentioned wrestler Vinesh Phogat, suggesting that there were schemes to prevent her from winning a gold medal for India. She urged BJP and other opposition leaders to listen and support measures that respect and protect women.
