"BJP politicising gangrape," says Woman and Social Welfare Minister Shashi Panja

In the wake of the alleged gang rape of a medical student at a private college in Durgapur, West Bengal’s Woman and Child Welfare Minister Shashi Panja said that BJP is politicising the incident.She stated that the police are conducting a thorough investigation and that the victim is receiving medical and psychological support, including counselling and necessary check-ups. Panja also emphasized on Kolkata being one of the safest cities and urged people to remember that West Bengal is ruled by a female Chief Minister. She reiterated that West Bengal works actively for women’s rights and that the Chief Minister takes strict action against any injustice toward women.

Shashi Panja also said that the victim’s parents, who arrived from Odisha, have expressed faith in the ongoing investigation. Minister Panja emphasized that crimes against women should not be viewed through a political lens and highlighted the state’s commitment to women’s safety and empowerment.

Panja also drew attention to other tragic incidents, including harassment-related self-harm cases in Odisha, noting that such crimes are unfortunate regardless of the state in which they occur. She insisted that political parties should focus on supporting victims rather than using such incidents for political gain.

Responding to the case, BJP General Secretary Agnimitra Paul claimed that the incident highlights a lack of law and order in Bengal, accusing the state government of failing to ensure the safety of women and students.