BJP divided over ticket for RG Kar victim ‘Abhaya’s’ mother as Samik-Suvendu camp raises objections

The BJP is facing internal divisions over the possibility of fielding the mother of RG Kar rape and murder victim 'Abhaya' as a party candidate. According to sources in the saffron camp, state president Samik Bhattacharya and Union minister Sukanta Majumdar are not in favour of giving her a ticket with the party’s lotus symbol. Their camp has reportedly communicated its reservations to the central leadership in Delhi, citing several political and strategic concerns.

In contrast, Leader of Opposition Shuvendu Adhikari is understood to be supportive of offering her a party ticket. Supporters of the move have reportedly placed their arguments before the central leadership as well. The debate has created a dilemma within the party’s state leadership over whether fielding the victim’s mother would politically benefit the party or lead to further controversy. The victim in the RG Kar rape and murder case has been referred to as “Abhaya”, echoing the naming of Delhi’s “Nirbhaya”. Unlike Nirbhaya’s mother, however, Abhaya’s mother has stepped directly into politics amid the aftermath of the case. She and her husband have already joined the BJP, sparking speculation about their future political roles within the party.

Last week at her Panihati residence, Abhaya’s mother publicly announced her decision to contest elections on a BJP ticket, saying she wanted to “snatch justice”. She said she had informed the party leadership over the phone and accused the CPM of doing politics over their tragedy. Her announcement triggered strong reactions across the state, including criticism on social media accusing her of using her daughter’s death for political ambitions. Some BJP leaders and workers also believe that the RG Kar incident is not confined to Panihati and may not automatically translate into votes if she is fielded.