‘In name of protest, some women going out to buy alcohol at night’: TMC MLA

TMC MLA and Minister for Animal Resources Development, Swapan Debnath, has ignited controversy following remarks he made during a public program in Kalna, Purba Bardhaman, regarding the ongoing protests over the RG Kar rape and murder case. A video of Debnath's comments has since gone viral, drawing widespread criticism.

In his speech, Debnath questioned the presence of women on the streets late at night under the pretext of protests. He linked these actions to the broader environment in West Bengal, which, according to him, allows women the freedom to protest at night. However, he added a cautionary note, suggesting that parents should monitor their daughters' nighttime activities, particularly when alcohol consumption is involved.

The MLA further elaborated that he had personally investigated instances where women were allegedly consuming alcohol at local hotels at night. Debnath claimed to have intervened and spoken to hotel owners, instructing them not to serve alcohol to women at night. He justified this action as part of his responsibility, stating that alcohol consumption by women at night could lead to unfortunate incidents, and such situations would place blame on authorities.

Referring to a specific instance, Debnath mentioned that he confronted a situation where a young woman, along with two men, was found drinking beer at 2 am. He subsequently called the parents and questioned their knowledge of their daughter's whereabouts. The group was later picked up by the police.

Debnath also criticized some of the individuals leading the protests, suggesting that their actions were inconsistent with their public stance. He claimed that while some protesters were outspoken about the RG Kar case, they were also seen engaging in Durga Puja shopping and other festive activities.