Kolkata, 24 February (H.S.):West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday expressed deep condolences to the parents of the female doctor who was murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, referring to her as her sister. She demanded stringent punishment for those responsible for the heinous crime.

Speaking at a special program attended by senior and junior doctors and medical students at the Dhanadhanya auditorium, Banerjee highlighted her government’s commitment to ensuring justice. She pointed out that her administration had introduced the Aparajita Bill, which proposes the death penalty for rape convicts.

I extend my condolences to the family of my sister who was killed at RG Kar Hospital. We demand the strictest punishment in this case, she said.

Banerjee also recalled participating in street protests against the incident. Our government had passed the Aparajita Bill, but it is still pending with the President, she added.

The tragic incident took place on August 9, 2024, when a 31-year-old junior doctor was raped and murdered at the Kolkata-based government hospital, sending shockwaves across the country.

In September 2024, the West Bengal Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the Aparajita Women and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Law and Amendment Bill, 2024), which mandates the death penalty for rapists if the victim dies or falls into a permanent coma.

Appealing to society, Banerjee said, I entrust my brothers with the responsibility of protecting their sisters and preventing such heinous crimes. Gender disparity is gradually diminishing, which is a positive sign. The government will do its part, but I believe men in society must also take an active role.

Earlier this month, several Trinamool Congress MPs met President Droupadi Murmu to discuss the pending bill, which had been sent to her via Governor C.V. Ananda Bose.

Hindusthan Samachar / S P Singh