West Bengal Durgapur Rape Case: BJP Hits Out at Mamata Govt, Calls State a 'Safe Haven for Rapists'

In a shocking and deeply distressing incident, a medical student from Odisha was allegedly abducted and gang-raped in Durgapur, West Bengal, in 2024. The case has triggered widespread outrage across the nation, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) sharply criticising the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led state government for its alleged failure to ensure women’s safety. The political, social, and emotional aftermath of this crime has once again placed West Bengal’s law and order situation under intense scrutiny.

Incident Details and Police Action

According to reports, the victim, a young medical student from Odisha, was in Durgapur for an internship programme. On her way back to her accommodation one evening, she was allegedly abducted by a group of men. The perpetrators reportedly assaulted and gang-raped her before leaving her in a critical condition near an isolated stretch on the city’s outskirts.

Local residents discovered the woman unconscious and immediately alerted the police. She was rushed to a nearby hospital in Durgapur and later shifted to a specialised medical facility in Kolkata for further treatment. Doctors have confirmed that she is undergoing intensive medical care and counselling.

The police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case. So far, several suspects have been detained for questioning, and CCTV footage from nearby areas is being reviewed. Authorities have also assured that forensic samples and digital evidence will be examined meticulously to ensure that the culprits are brought to justice swiftly.

However, despite these assurances, the opposition and sections of civil society have expressed dissatisfaction with the pace and transparency of the investigation. Critics argue that such incidents reflect a deeper problem within the state’s policing and governance systems.

BJP’s Sharp Reaction: 'Safe Haven for Rapists'

The BJP wasted no time in lashing out at the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government over the alleged gang-rape. BJP leaders accused the state administration of turning West Bengal into a “safe haven for rapists” and failing to uphold basic law and order. Party spokespersons have demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case, claiming that the state police cannot be trusted to handle such sensitive matters impartially.

BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla remarked, “Every few months, we hear of a new horror story from West Bengal. Women are not safe under the TMC regime. The Durgapur rape case is another tragic example of Mamata Banerjee’s failed governance.” He added that the Chief Minister must take moral responsibility for the deteriorating safety of women in the state.

State BJP leaders also held protest marches in Kolkata, Durgapur, and Asansol, demanding justice for the victim and stringent punishment for the accused. They alleged that the TMC government prioritises political image over public safety and has consistently downplayed crimes against women.

TMC’s Response and Political Backlash

The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly condemned the incident while accusing the BJP of politicising a tragic crime. A TMC spokesperson stated, “This is a horrific and condemnable act. The state police have already taken swift action and several suspects are under investigation. The BJP should not exploit this crime for political mileage.”

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, while expressing deep sorrow over the incident, has directed the police to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation. “No one involved in this heinous crime will be spared. Justice will be delivered,” she assured in a public statement.

Despite these assurances, the opposition remains unconvinced. Political analysts suggest that this case could intensify the ongoing war of words between the BJP and TMC, particularly as West Bengal prepares for upcoming civic and panchayat elections. The issue of women’s safety has become a recurring flashpoint in Bengal’s political discourse, and the Durgapur case has only deepened the divide.

Odisha CM Condemns the Crime

The incident has also drawn strong reactions from Odisha, the home state of the victim. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed shock and condemnation, calling the assault “inhuman and utterly unacceptable.” He urged the West Bengal government to take decisive action to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly punished.

“The young woman from our state went to West Bengal with dreams of building her career in medicine. What happened to her is unimaginable. We demand justice for our daughter,” said Patnaik, adding that his government is in touch with West Bengal authorities to monitor the victim’s condition and the progress of the investigation.

The Odisha State Women’s Commission has also sought a detailed report from its West Bengal counterpart, emphasising the need for inter-state coordination to prevent such incidents in the future.

Civil Society and Public Protests

The brutality of the Durgapur gang-rape has sparked outrage among citizens, activists, and women’s rights organisations across India. In several cities, including Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Delhi, protesters took to the streets demanding justice for the victim and stronger measures to ensure women’s safety.

Candlelight vigils were organised at multiple locations, where participants carried placards reading “Justice for Durgapur Victim” and “Stop Violence Against Women.” Prominent activists criticised the government’s apathy and called for systemic reforms to improve women’s safety infrastructure in West Bengal.

Social media has been flooded with messages of solidarity, with hashtags such as **#JusticeForDurgapurVictim**, **#WomenSafety**, and **#StopRapeCulture** trending nationwide. Netizens have urged authorities to fast-track the investigation and ensure a speedy trial.

Several women’s rights groups have also demanded better surveillance systems, safer public transport, and the establishment of fast-track courts to deal with sexual assault cases. Many have highlighted that despite repeated public outcry, preventive action on women’s safety in West Bengal remains inadequate.

The Larger Debate on Women’s Safety in Bengal

The Durgapur incident has once again reignited the debate over women’s safety in West Bengal. Over the years, the state has witnessed several high-profile cases of sexual violence, leading to recurring demands for stronger policing, legal reforms, and gender sensitisation.

Experts point out that while the state government has launched initiatives such as the *Safe Drive, Save Life* and *Uttaran* schemes, there has been limited focus on gender-specific safety measures. The lack of effective deterrence, delayed trials, and political blame games have further weakened public trust in the system.

Conclusion

The **West Bengal Durgapur rape case: BJP hits out at Mamata govt, calls state a 'safe haven for rapists'** is more than just a political controversy—it is a tragic reminder of the urgent need for collective action to ensure women’s safety in India. As the victim continues her battle for recovery, the nation watches closely to see whether justice will prevail or whether this case, too, will fade from public memory like many before it.

In a society that prides itself on progress and empowerment, crimes like these serve as a painful reminder that true safety and equality remain distant goals. The demand is clear and urgent: justice for the victim, accountability for the system, and safety for every woman, everywhere.