The alleged gang-rape of a 24-year-old law student inside South Calcutta Law College has triggered a massive political and public outrage, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launching a full-scale attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
The student was reportedly raped by three men—one an ex-student and two current students—inside the college premises. One of the accused, Manojit Mishra, is said to have affiliations with the TMC’s student wing, sparking intense scrutiny over political shelter and the erosion of campus safety.
BJP Turns Up the Heat
Calling the incident "state-sponsored brutality," BJP demanded Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s apology and resignation. BJP national leaders have formed a four-member fact-finding team to investigate the incident. West Bengal BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar led a protest march, but was detained by Kolkata Police before reaching Nabanna.
TMC Leaders Under Fire
Adding fuel to the outrage, senior TMC leaders Kalyan Banerjee and Madan Mitra made controversial remarks that were widely criticized as victim-blaming. Facing backlash, the party distanced itself from the statements, while TMC MP Mahua Moitra publicly condemned the misogynistic tone, asserting that "misogyny cuts across party lines."
Police Action and Investigation
The Kolkata Police have arrested all three accused and a security guard linked to the incident. Officials confirmed that the arrests were made swiftly based on the victim's statement. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have promised strict action.
Public Outcry and Demands for Accountability
The case has sparked massive uproar on social media and among student bodies, with demands for safer educational spaces and stricter enforcement of law. Women’s rights activists, opposition leaders, and civil society members are demanding justice and accountability from the ruling TMC government
TMC’s Response
Trinamool leadership continues to maintain that no party member is officially linked to the accused. Party spokesperson Trinankur Bhattacharya clarified that "the accused is not associated with the TMC student wing."
As political mudslinging intensifies, the larger focus remains on justice for the survivor and systemic reforms to make educational institutions safe for all. The incident once again brings to light the intersection of politics, gender violence, and institutional accountability in India.