Kolkata: West Bengal Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, Chandrima Bhattacharya, has called on the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to build a strong case in the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital rape and murder case to ensure that “the rapist is hanged.” The TMC leader made this demand during a protest in Kolkata on Sunday.
The protest, organised by the TMC's Mahila Congress, followed directions from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had instructed the party to stage demonstrations in response to the brutal incident.
Speaking to ANI, Chandrima Bhattacharya said, "On 28th August, our leader (Mamata Banerjee) had given directions to Trinamool Mahila Congress to stage a demonstration on 1st September in every block. CBI has not said a word about investigation so far, our demand is for them to tell us about the progress of the investigation and build such a case that the rapist is hanged."
The West Bengal government has also announced a special session of the Assembly on September 2 and 3, where a bill advocating for capital punishment for perpetrators of such crimes will be tabled. "There is no provision for capital punishment in the Constitution…So, we are also demanding such a provision. Our Government has called a Special Session of Assembly on 2-3 September. We are bringing a Bill that will go to the President through the Governor. We believe that the President will sanction it and it will become a law," Bhattacharya added.
The incident, which involved the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, has sparked widespread protests across West Bengal and other parts of the country. Doctors have been holding protests demanding justice for the victim and stronger security measures for healthcare professionals.
The case has also led to political tensions, with the BJP demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Following an order from the Calcutta High Court, the case was transferred to the CBI from the local police.
Sanjoy Roy, a civic volunteer at the hospital, has been arrested in connection with the crime.