No Woman Is Safe in West Bengal: A delegation led by former Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi visited Kolkata to highlight what the BJP calls a sharp rise in crimes against women under the current state administration.
Key Allegation: “No Woman Is Safe in West Bengal”
At the heart of their criticism is a bold statement:
“No woman is safe in West Bengal.”
BJP leaders point to recent incidents—most notably the gang rape at a Kolkata law college—to claim a climate of impunity for criminals in the region.
Top BJP Concerns
- Weak Recruitment Vetting
The BJP alleges that individuals with criminal backgrounds are being recruited in educational institutions without proper background checks, bypassing national hiring norms. - Political Protection for Accused
Senior BJP figures argue that political patronage, particularly under the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), emboldens perpetrators. The party has also questioned delays in filing FIRs and progressing investigations. - Underreported Crimes
The delegation expressed concern that several cases involving women don’t enter the justice system due to administrative apathy.
Govt Stands Firm
In response, the TMC-led government emphasizes:
- Rapid arrests in the law college case—suspects were detained within 24 hours.
- Introduction of the Aparajita Bill, which toughens punishments for sexual assault, establishes fast-track courts, and mandates women-led investigative teams.
No Woman Is Safe in West Bengal: NCW Involvement
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu notice of the law college incident, directing the West Bengal Director General of Police to submit a detailed compliance report within 72 hours.
Historical Context: Recurring Incidents
Several high-profile cases precede the current one:
- Gang rape at R.G. Kar Medical College (2024)
- Multiple attacks and violence involving minors in Hanskhali, Birbhum, and other regions
Critics argue these patterns highlight systemic governance deficiencies.
Legislative Efforts: Aparajita Bill
Passed in 2024, the West Bengal Criminal Law (Amendment) Act introduces:
- Death penalty for rape resulting in death or vegetative outcomes
- Mandatory minimum sentences and fast-track proceedings
- Women police teams handling sexual assault investigations
While praised for its intent, the bill’s effectiveness remains under scrutiny.
Institutional Reforms on Campus Security
Advocates now recommend:
- Mandatory background verification for all staff
- 24/7 CCTV monitoring, entry logs, and IDs in institutions
- Accessible counselling and complaint redressal mechanisms
Moving Forward
- The law college case is under active police investigation with forensic and digital evidence being examined.
- The NCW will closely monitor developments.
- The BJP is reportedly using this issue to sharpen its political critique ahead of future elections.
- Observers expect the Arunajita Bill framework and campus-safety proposals to be tested in upcoming policy discussions.
Final Word
The BJP’s assertion- “No woman is safe in West Bengal”—forces a critical examination of the state’s record on women’s safety. While the government cites legal reforms and quick action, citizens demand consistent implementation and administrative transparency. Only rigorous oversight and enforcement can ensure safety for all women in the state.
Ongoing Measures & Long-Term Path
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Investigations: SIT set up for the law college case; evidence collection continues; trial expedited under NCW watch.
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Legislative Audit: Proposals may amend the Aparajita Act to include campus safety, vetting protocols, and grievance redress mechanisms.
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Institutional Policies: Colleges expected to formalize security guidelines—CCTV, background checks, female support desks, survivor counseling.
External References
- West Bengal Police
- National Commission for Women
- West Bengal Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2024 – “Aparajita Bill”
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