West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will lead a two-day dharna organised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday, seeking the death penalty for the culprits in the rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College. The TMC’s rallies coincide with increased demands for stricter laws to prevent crimes against women in the state. The protest, which will take place throughout the state, demands the death penalty for the accused and a change in the legal system to ensure more severe penalties. Banerjee has urged TMC workers to hold protests across all blocks on Saturday, and women to join in on Sunday.
The cruel crime, which occurred 20 days ago, has caused widespread outrage and worsened the political blame game between the ruling TMC and the opposition BJP. In reaction, the BJP has called for a seven-day dharna, accusing the state government of failing to protect women.
The opposition has also accused Mamata Banerjee of stifling student protests and dodging punishment for the murder. Meanwhile, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) will stage a demonstration at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Saturday, demanding justice for the victim and the implementation of a centralised protection legislation for healthcare workers.
The central government has pushed Banerjee to create fast-track particular courts for rape cases. Union Minister emphasised the importance of timely and efficient justice, while also underlining that existing rules are sufficient if properly applied. The National Human Rights Commission has also sent a notice to the Kolkata Police, requesting a report on alleged police brutality during rallies. As tensions rise, both the central and state governments continue to level allegations, while the public demands justice for the victim.