Is Mamata Banerjee 'playing real victim' in Kolkata rape-murder case?

New Delhi: The brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have ignited widespread protests across Bengal. Women, outraged by the horrific incident, have taken to the streets demanding justice. Amid this uproar, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee is positioning herself as the victim, seeking justice for the crime that occurred under her administration.

What happened at the RG Kar Medical College?

A trainee doctor was raped and murdered, potentially by a gang, at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, throwing the state into turmoil. Despite the severity of the crime, Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister, who also holds the portfolios of home and health, has portrayed herself as a victim. Initially, she withdrew the general consent from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), but she now demands that the CBI expedite the investigation and hang the culprits by August 18.

Attempts to portray sexual assault as suicide

The tragic incident has placed Mamata Banerjee and her party in a precarious position. The mismanagement of the initial investigation by her administration, including attempts to portray the sexual assault as a suicide, has fueled public outrage. Women, a crucial constituency for Mamata, are protesting like never before, reminiscent of the 2012 Nirbhaya case protests in Delhi. The opposition is seizing the opportunity to challenge her leadership.

Controversial moves and allegations

The administration’s actions have drawn criticism, especially the reappointment of the well-connected principal of RG Kar Medical College to a plum position within hours of his resignation. The accused in the case, also allegedly well-connected, has been arrested. These developments have exacerbated public dissatisfaction and cast doubts on the transparency and integrity of the investigation.

Mamata's history of deflecting criticism

Mamata Banerjee has a history of deflecting criticism by portraying herself as the victim. In this case, she has demanded swift justice from the CBI, the same agency whose powers she previously curtailed. Her rhetoric suggests that the CBI must act swiftly to avoid becoming the villain in this scenario. This strategic maneuver aims to shift the blame from her administration to the investigative agency.

Nationwide repercussions from doctors

The rape-murder has had nationwide repercussions, with doctors going on strike and OPD services and surgeries being impacted. The National Commission for Women (NCW) highlighted deficiencies in the initial investigation by Kolkata Police, raising concerns about the potential compromise of the crime scene. The CBI now faces the challenge of conducting a transparent investigation under intense public scrutiny.

Playing double role: Protestor or autority?

Mamata Banerjee has announced a rally to demand justice, positioning herself as a champion for the victim, despite her dual role as both the protester and the authority. Her previous threats to her own Kolkata Police with a CBI investigation further complicate her stance. The public and opposition are keenly watching how she navigates this crisis.

As the protests continue and public anger remains high, Mamata Banerjee's political future may hinge on her ability to convincingly play the role of the wronged leader while ensuring that justice is served.