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A tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a young doctor in Kolkata has created a huge wave of criticism and concern across India. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi have both expressed strong disapproval of the handling of the case, highlighting significant issues with the local administration and the state government led by the Trinamool Congress.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s response to the tragedy was one of deep distress, as she described the assault and murder of the trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College as “heartbreaking.” She urged the Trinamool Congress government to take immediate and stringent action to ensure justice for the victim and safety for women in the workplace. Her comments reflect a broader concern about the efficacy of laws meant to protect women, given that the recent incident underscores a troubling pattern of violence against women that has persisted despite legal advancements since the Nirbhaya case.
Rahul Gandhi’s social media post further intensifies the criticism. He questioned the local administration’s response and suggested that the case was mishandled in a way that prioritized protecting the accused over delivering justice. Gandhi drew comparisons to the Nirbhaya case to underscore the seriousness of the situation, expressing concern about the broader implications for women’s safety and security. He emphasized that if even medical professionals are unsafe, it undermines the ability of parents to trust in the safety of their daughters pursuing education away from home.
The case has stirred political and public outrage, with criticism directed at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government from various political factions and civil society groups. The involvement of Sanjoy Roy, a police volunteer, as the prime suspect, and the subsequent arrest based on CCTV evidence, has added to the case’s complexity. The Central Bureau of Investigation has now taken over the investigation, following an order from the Calcutta High Court, amid ongoing speculation and calls for thorough justice.