In the Wake of a Tragic March — The aftermath of the RG Kar Hospital incident has entered a fresh chapter of political sparring after Trinamool Congress (TMC) spokesperson Kunal Ghosh publicly detailed his communication with the father of a young woman injured during a protest march. What began as a humanitarian exchange has now turned into a flashpoint between TMC and BJP leaders.
In the Wake of a Tragic March: Incident Timeline
On the day of the protest march towards Nabanna, violence reportedly broke out near the EM Bypass stretch close to RG Kar Hospital. According to hospital officials and eyewitnesses, the woman sustained injuries around 4:00 pm.
Ghosh stated that he received a message from the victim’s father at 5:49 pm and spoke with him for approximately 22 minutes. During this call, Ghosh claims, the father requested a copy of a video related to the incident — footage that later became central to the political narrative.
Video Controversy
The video in question allegedly showed BJP functionary Koustuv Bagchi near the victim’s family shortly after the incident. Ghosh suggested that the presence was politically motivated. However, Bagchi firmly denied the allegation, calling it an attempt to malign him.
Bagchi insisted that he had a personal connection with the family long before the incident and dismissed any notion of political opportunism. The victim’s father publicly supported Bagchi’s statement, asserting that he had asked Ghosh for the video and that it was not sent unsolicited.
Public Statements Escalate
Both sides have since issued public statements:
- Kunal Ghosh reiterated that the video was sent only upon the family’s request, adding, “If they say they didn’t want it, I will respect that, but they asked me for it. Political statements will be met with political replies.”
- Koustuv Bagchi countered by questioning Ghosh’s motives and accusing him of politicizing a family’s trauma.
The family, caught between political crossfire, has expressed disappointment that their personal tragedy has turned into a public dispute.
Larger Political Implications
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Bengal’s political landscape, where even humanitarian acts can be framed as partisan maneuvers. It also reflects the growing role of social media in shaping public perception during crises.
Political analysts note that in West Bengal’s volatile climate, incidents involving high-profile figures are rarely viewed in isolation. Whether an act is perceived as compassionate or calculated often depends on the political affiliation of the viewer.
Looking Forward
Civil society groups have called for:
- Clearer media handling protocols during protests to prevent misinformation.
- Non-political support systems for families affected by protest-related violence.
- Greater transparency from political leaders when releasing sensitive material.
Further Reading
- Trinamool Congress Official Website – Party statements and press releases.
- Bharatiya Janata Party – West Bengal – State unit’s positions and media statements.
- EM Bypass & Protest History – The Hindu – Background on the protest route and past clashes.
- RG Kar Medical College & Hospital – Official Information – Institutional background and services.
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