The CPI(M) has unequivocally stated that West Bengal is no longer secure for women, alleging the state has transformed into a sanctuary for criminals. Sujan Chakraborty, a prominent central committee member of the CPI(M), declared, “In West Bengal, criminals are safe, not women.”
This forceful condemnation comes in the wake of comments made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. She advised female boarders, particularly those from other states, to adhere strictly to hostel regulations and avoid going out late at night. Her remarks were prompted by the horrific gang-rape of a private medical college student in Durgapur, who originally hailed from Odisha, after she had gone out for dinner with a friend. In response to the incident, three individuals have been arrested and one detained, while the Chief Minister of Odisha has extended support to the victim’s family.
Chakraborty sharply criticized the Chief Minister’s stance, arguing that her advice for women to stay indoors undermines any claims of safety in cities like Kolkata or Durgapur. He emphasized, “By asking women students not to venture out at night, the Chief Minister has made it clear that the propaganda that Kolkata is the safest city, or Durgapur is a safe city, is not true.” He further clarified that while security within a private medical college campus falls under the responsibility of its personnel, maintaining overall law and order outside the campus is the state’s primary duty. Chakraborty’s statements highlight a growing concern over the state government’s commitment to public safety and its ability to protect its female citizens.