Kolkata: Amid rising public anger over the rape and murder of a young woman at a Kolkata hospital, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has set a deadline for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). In an unexpected move, Banerjee has called for a rally today, demanding swift justice and the death penalty for those responsible. She has given the CBI until Sunday, August 18, to complete their investigation and ensure capital punishment for the culprits.
“Our Kolkata Police has already completed 90 percent of the investigation. The CBI must ensure that the guilty are hanged by Sunday,” she declared.
The Chief Minister’s rally has taken many by surprise, especially given that the protesters have accused the police of mishandling the case and the ruling Trinamool Congress of attempting to destroy evidence. As the Home Minister of the state, Banerjee’s involvement in the protest has sparked curiosity and criticism.
Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien explained the rationale behind the rally, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the need for urgent action. “This horrific act has rightly outraged the public. The CBI must provide daily updates on the investigation. Justice will only be served when all those involved are arrested and brought before a fast-track court,” O’Brien stated.
He warned that the case must not be allowed to fade into obscurity under CBI supervision and demanded harsh punishment for every individual involved. Additionally, he called for accountability in response to the recent mob violence at RG Kar Medical College, where the incident took place. According to O’Brien, 19 arrests have been made related to the vandalism.
This tragic event has triggered protests and strikes by doctors nationwide, with many questioning the handling of the investigation and the subsequent political maneuvering. Banerjee had previously assured that the case would be handed over to the CBI if the police were unable to solve it by Sunday. The Calcutta High Court intervened earlier this week, directing the CBI to take charge without further delays.
