Kolkata, June 28: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has issued a strong statement disassociating itself from controversial remarks made by party MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra regarding the horrific rape incident at South Kolkata Law College. The party clarified that the statements were made in the leaders' personal capacities and do not reflect the TMC’s stance.
TMC MP Mahua Moitra responded strongly, slamming the remarks. In a tweet, she said, “Misogyny in India cuts across party lines. What differentiates @AITCofficial is that we condemn these disgusting comments no matter who makes them.”
The party’s and Moitra’s responses come amid mounting public outrage over the incident and growing calls for accountability and justice for the victim.
“The remarks made by MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra concerning the heinous crime at South Calcutta Law College were made in their personal capacities. The party unequivocally disassociates itself from their statements and strongly condemns the same. These views do not reflect the position of the party in any manner whatsoever,” the party stated on X (formerly Twitter).
Reaffirming its position, TMC added, “Our stance remains resolute; we have zero tolerance for crimes against women and demand the strictest possible punishment for all those involved in this heinous crime.”
The controversy stems from Kalyan Banerjee’s remarks downplaying the gravity of the crime. As reported by NDTV, Banerjee said, “What can be done if a friend rapes his friend? Will the police be in schools? This was done by students to another student. Who will protect her (victim)?” He further added, “Who does all this criminality and molestation? Some men do it. So, who should women fight against? Women should fight against these perverted men.”
When asked about the accused’s alleged links to TMC, Banerjee refused to comment directly. He reiterated, “Whoever has done it must be arrested immediately. But if a friend rapes a friend, how can that be corruption?”
