CM Mamata’s Call To Focus On Durga Puja “Incensitive”: Kolkata Doctor’s Mother

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee faced significant backlash after urging the public to shift their focus from ongoing protests to the upcoming Durga Puja festivities. This appeal was made in the context of widespread demonstrations demanding justice for a 31-year-old trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College on August 9, 2024. The protests, led by junior doctors and supported by the public, have persisted for nearly a month, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and justice for women in the state.

The mother of the victim publicly criticized Banerjee’s remarks as “insensitive,” expressing her grief and anger. She stated, “We used to celebrate Durga Puja with our daughter, but we will never celebrate Durga Puja or any other festival for years to come,” and questioned whether Banerjee would have made the same comments if it were her own child who had suffered such a tragedy. The mother accused the government of trying to suppress the protests and emphasized the lasting impact of her daughter’s death on her family, saying, “The lamp at my home has gone out forever” and “They are now trying to throttle the demand for justice”.

The protests have not only been a response to the tragic incident but also reflect broader societal issues regarding women’s safety in India. Junior doctors have vowed to continue their strike until their demands for better security measures and accountability are met, despite a Supreme Court order to return to work. The situation remains tense, with calls for justice resonating throughout West Bengal and beyond, as activists and citizens rally to support the victim’s family and demand systemic changes.