Is it shameful to blame women? BJD criticizes Mamata Banerjee's remarks on Durgapur gang rape
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Synopsis
BJD leader Lekhashree Samantsinghar vehemently criticizes CM Mamata Banerjee's comments on the Durgapur gang rape of an Odia girl. The remarks raise serious questions about women's safety and the responsibility of government officials in such grave matters. This article delves into the implications of the Chief Minister's statements and the urgent need for change.
Key Takeaways
- Lekhashree Samantsinghar criticizes Mamata Banerjee's remarks on women's safety.
- Calls for strict action against offenders are emphasized.
- Victim-blaming in public discourse is a significant concern.
- The importance of government accountability in ensuring safety for women is highlighted.
- A zero-tolerance policy against crimes against women is essential.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 13 (NationPress) Senior BJD leader Lekhashree Samantsinghar expressed strong disapproval of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s comments regarding the Durgapur gang rape case involving an Odia girl.
In an interview with IANS, Samantsinghar stated, “It is truly regrettable that an innocent Odia girl from my Lok Sabha constituency, Balasore, specifically from the Jaleswar Assembly segment, became a victim of gang rape in West Bengal. Rather than ensuring justice and safety for women, the Chief Minister made an irresponsible remark implying that women should refrain from going out at night. Such comments are unacceptable in a civilized society.”
She continued, “It is the responsibility of the government to guarantee safety for women at all times—not to question their clothing or limit their freedom of movement. Every woman has the inherent right to live freely and safely, just like any man. It is disgraceful for a woman Chief Minister from Bengal—a region celebrated for Goddess Durga and female empowerment—to imply her inability to protect women’s safety.”
Calling for severe punishment for the offenders, the BJD leader remarked, “The safety of women is non-negotiable. Whether in Odisha or West Bengal, it is essential for every government to take decisive action against those who perpetrate violence against women and foster an environment where they can live and work without fear.”
On Sunday, Chief Minister Banerjee suggested that girls should avoid going out at night.
Simultaneously, she claimed that her administration has implemented a zero-tolerance policy against such atrocious crimes and directed the police to take rigorous action against the accused.
“In Bengal, we uphold a zero-tolerance policy regarding these offenses. Students from outside come here for their education. I urge them not to venture out at night because the police may not be aware of who is out at that hour. The police cannot monitor everyone by visiting each home. The private medical colleges also bear the responsibility for their students’ safety,” stated CM Banerjee while addressing the media outside the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.
The CM added, “If someone goes out at 12:30 a.m. and something occurs, we condemn the incident. We do not endorse what happened. Everyone is entitled to go anywhere. However, especially those residing in hostels, must practice caution. I have instructed the police to take strict measures. No one will be exempt.”
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the broader implications of the statements made by public figures. The focus should remain on the safety and empowerment of women, ensuring that no victim is ever blamed for the crimes committed against them. Society must hold leaders accountable for their words and actions in prioritizing women's rights and safety across all regions of India.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Mamata Banerjee's comments on the Durgapur incident?
Mamata Banerjee suggested that girls should not go out at night, raising concerns over victim-shaming.
Who criticized Mamata Banerjee's remarks?
Senior BJD leader Lekhashree Samantsinghar condemned the comments as unacceptable.
What is the BJD's stance on women's safety?
The BJD emphasizes that women's safety is non-negotiable and demands strict action against offenders.
What is the zero-tolerance policy mentioned by Banerjee?
Banerjee stated her government has a zero-tolerance policy against heinous crimes and has instructed police to act decisively.
What implications do Banerjee's comments have on women's rights?
The comments suggest a troubling trend of victim-blaming, diverting attention from the responsibility of authorities to ensure safety.
