BJP Stands Firm: Nomination of R.G. Kar Victim's Mother for Panihati Assembly
Synopsis
In a significant political move, the BJP has nominated Ratna Debnath, the mother of a junior doctor tragically murdered in a Kolkata hospital, for the Panihati Assembly seat. This decision aims to amplify the victim's voice and advocate for justice amid allegations against the ruling government.
Key Takeaways
BJP nominates Ratna Debnath for Panihati Assembly.
Decision aims to amplify the victim's voice .
Criticism directed at the ruling Trinamool Congress .
Focus on women's rights and empowerment .
Upcoming Assembly elections next month.
New Delhi, March 26 (NationPress) The leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended their choice on Thursday to nominate the mother of a junior doctor from West Bengal's R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, who was tragically raped and murdered on the hospital grounds in August 2024, as a candidate for the Panihati Assembly constituency in North 24 Parganas district.
Ratna Debnath, the victim's mother, was included in the party's third list of 19 candidates, which was revealed on Wednesday, ahead of the state’s upcoming two-phase Assembly elections next month.
BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh stated to IANS, "The BJP has made sure that the victim’s voice is amplified in Bengal’s largest panchayat, allowing her to seek justice. The party has illuminated the path for the victim's mother towards the Bengal Assembly."
Chugh further criticized the Trinamool Congress government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, for allegedly sheltering the perpetrators involved in the case.
He remarked, "The oppressive Trinamool government under Mamata Banerjee has inflicted injustice upon the victim of the R.G. Kar Medical College case. The Banerjee administration attempted every possible means to shield the criminals and stifle the case."
Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi also commended the decision.
He expressed, "She certainly deserves to be nominated (for the electoral ticket). This is an issue of women's dignity and empowerment. The victim endured horrific experiences; if the BJP has granted her (the victim's mother) a ticket to contest the Assembly elections, it would symbolize respect for women's rights. She will triumph in Bengal and advocate for her cause in the Assembly. The BJP has made a commendable choice."
Importantly, Ratna Debnath is also a registered voter in the Panihati constituency.
It is worth noting that on March 23, the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, had communicated with the media that the parents of the R.G. Kar victim had joined the BJP as primary members.
However, Adhikari indicated that the decision on whether either of them would be nominated as a candidate from Panihati would rest with the party’s central leadership. On Wednesday, the party confirmed the nomination of the victim’s mother for the constituency.
Point of View
The BJP's decision to nominate Ratna Debnath highlights the intersection of politics and personal tragedy. This strategic move aims to resonate with voters while addressing serious issues surrounding justice and women's rights in West Bengal.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ratna Debnath?
Ratna Debnath is the mother of a junior doctor who was tragically raped and murdered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.
What position is Ratna Debnath contesting for?
She is contesting for the Panihati Assembly constituency as a candidate for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
What allegations have been made against the West Bengal government?
The BJP has accused the Mamata Banerjee-led government of protecting the perpetrators involved in the murder case.
Why is this nomination significant?
This nomination aims to amplify the victim's voice and highlight issues of women's rights and justice in West Bengal.
When will the Assembly elections take place?
The two-phase Assembly elections in West Bengal are scheduled for next month.
