TMC disowns netas' 'misogynistic remarks'; oppn takes to streets over women's security

KOLKATA: The political slugfest following the gang-rape of a law student inside a college continued Saturday as TMC took pains to distance itself from the "misogynistic remarks" of its own netas, emphasising instead the "quick action taken against the accused". Opposition, however, questioned security for women at workplaces and educational institutes and "promised to stay on the roads".

"The remarks by MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra concerning the heinous crime were made in their personal capacities. The party unequivocally disassociates itself from their statements and condemns the same. We have zero tolerance for crimes against women and demand the strictest possible punishment for all those involved," TMC posted on X.

TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said: "Our party has zero tolerance towards such instances. Police have apprehended three people and arrested one more on Saturday. Mobile phones were seized. The investigation is ongoing. We are clear about our stand - these beasts deserve the harshest punishment. But we will not be lectured by CPM or BJP, who have a long history of violence against women."

The fresh controversy erupted following Kamarhati MLA Mitra's remark, where he claimed that the incident in Kasba "has sent a message to all girls, to all students that if someone you know calls you on a day when college is closed and exams are going on, saying they'll help with a unit project, don't go". On Friday, Kalyan had said, "If a friend rapes another friend, how will govt authorities provide protection in such cases?"

BJP staged a protest at Gariahat intersection, leading to clashes with police and traffic disruptions in south Kolkata.

Meanwhile, CPM said its protests would continue till "women in Bengal are safe".