Article Today, Kolkata:
Political tensions have escalated in West Bengal following a series of protests over women’s safety. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government of complete administrative failure in protecting women. The trigger was the recent gang rape of a medical student in Durgapur, which sparked outrage across the state.
‘Operation Lal Mirchi’ on the Streets
In a symbolic protest, BJP women workers launched ‘Operation Lal Mirchi’ near Kolkata’s Salt Lake Metro station on Tuesday. They distributed packets of red chilli powder to women as a form of self-defence, condemning what they called the government’s negligence. The protest drew large crowds and highlighted growing public frustration over repeated incidents of violence against women. BJP leaders said the act represented the helplessness of women under Mamata’s rule.
Controversial Remarks from the Chief Minister
The controversy deepened after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee suggested that women should avoid going out late at night. The BJP sharply criticised the remarks, calling them an admission of failure to maintain law and order. Party leaders questioned how a woman Chief Minister could restrict women’s freedom instead of ensuring their protection. Though Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders later claimed her comments were misinterpreted, the opposition refused to relent.
Durgapur Case Sparks Outrage
The Durgapur incident, involving the gang rape of a medical student in a private college hostel, has become the centre of a political storm. While the Chief Minister expressed sorrow and promised action, she also advised adherence to hostel rules — a statement that drew further criticism. BJP leaders said blaming victims instead of punishing culprits reflected insensitivity within the state administration.
Working Women Express Concern
Mamata Banerjee’s remarks also alarmed working women, especially those in the IT sector who often work late hours. Many questioned how such restrictions could apply to modern workplaces. BJP leaders demanded that the government strengthen policing instead of deflecting responsibility. They also criticised the suggestion of “work from home” as a sign of administrative weakness.
Political Pressure Mounts on TMC
The protests and public backlash have placed the Trinamool Congress government under mounting political pressure. BJP leaders are intensifying their campaign, arguing that the state has failed to guarantee women’s security. Meanwhile, women’s rights groups have called for stronger laws and institutional accountability. The ongoing unrest marks one of the most serious challenges to the Mamata Banerjee government in recent months, as questions over law and order continue to dominate Bengal’s political discourse.
