The alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in West Bengal's Baruipur has sparked a major political confrontation. Former chief minister Mamata Banerjee took to the streets after a long gap to lead a candlelight march demanding justice on Monday, 6 July.
Mamata Banerjee Leads Candlelight March in Kolkata
Holding a lit candle and flanked by senior party leaders and supporters, Banerjee led the procession from outside her Kalighat residence. The marchers chanted slogans like "we want justice" and "justice for Baruipur" as they wound through a section of south Kolkata.
According to YouTube, TMC MP met the victim's family and said Mamata stands with them.
Political Confrontation Between TMC and BJP
The march briefly ran into confrontation after police and Central security personnel placed barricades. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the BJP have accused each other of exploiting the tragedy for political gain.
"Your voice, my voice — justice for Baruipur." — Mamata Banerjee, as reported by YouTube
Our Take: Justice Must Not Be Politicized
In our view, the Baruipur case is a tragic reminder of the failure to protect children. While Mamata Banerjee's march shows her commitment to justice, the political blame game between TMC and BJP only distracts from the real issue. The focus should remain on ensuring the guilty are punished and that such horrors do not happen again. The people of Bengal deserve answers, not political theater.
