How Did Bihar Rapist Escape Justice? Opposition Criticizes Government's Indifference

Patna, June 2 (NationPress) The horrific rape and subsequent death of a nine-year-old Dalit girl from Muzaffarpur has sparked outrage and anger within the community, with many calling for capital punishment for the perpetrator. The political arena is sharply divided regarding the state's negligence and lack of empathy toward the young victim, escalating into a significant political controversy as both the ruling party and the Opposition exchange criticisms.

The young victim succumbed to her injuries due to a series of systemic failures and medical malpractice. Her family claims she was forced to wait for hours at the Patna Medical College Hospital (PMCH) before receiving treatment, which they believe contributed to her tragic death. After being discovered in critical condition in a canal on May 26 in the Kudhni block of Muzaffarpur district, she was transported to Patna for medical assistance, yet passed away while awaiting care outside the hospital.

The Nitish Kumar-led NDA government has vowed to take strict action against anyone involved, but the Opposition remains skeptical about the ruling party's commitments to law and order and has accused it of being 'complicit' in the young girl's tragic demise.

"This is a grave incident, and the police swiftly apprehended the suspect. Legal actions have commenced, and a chargesheet will be presented shortly for a speedy trial," stated JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar.

"She was a child to us all. It’s inappropriate to politicize this matter. The hospital has issued a statement, and all events are under investigation. CCTV footage is also being reviewed. Everything will be addressed legally," he added.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai assured that the accused will face severe consequences and criticized previous administrations for their failures.

"During the Lalu-Rabri era, wrongdoers and the corrupt were shielded. However, the current NDA government under Nitish Kumar guarantees that offenders are held accountable," he remarked.

In contrast, the Opposition has intensified its critique of the ruling government, blaming it for criminal negligence and poor governance.

Bihar Congress in-charge Krishna Allavaru condemned the government's actions, stating, "It is tragic whenever a life is lost, especially that of a young girl who faced immense injustice. Although they claim to provide good governance, what we see here is rampant misgovernance."

"She fought for 3-4 days without receiving adequate medical care. People had to protest just to secure her admission to the hospital. The Chief Minister, ministers, and the administration failed her. Ultimately, the child lost her battle. This reflects poorly not just on Bihar but on the entire nation. This incident is deeply painful. We demand justice for her," he added.

On Sunday, extensive protests erupted in Patna and Muzaffarpur. In Patna, party activists led by Bihar Congress president Rajesh Ram gathered at an intersection, burning effigies of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Health Minister Mangal Pandey while calling for a judicial inquiry and the resignation of the Health Minister.

"If justice is not served for this girl, I will travel across Bihar with her ashes," Rajesh Ram announced during the demonstration.