1. BJP accuses Mamata Banerjee of concealing facts in the Sandeshkhali sexual violence case.
2. Ravi Shankar Prasad criticizes Banerjee for prioritizing political reputation over women’s safety.
3. BJP questions Rahul Gandhi’s silence on the issue.
Kolkata, Feb 21: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of attempting to conceal something in the Sandeshkhali sexual violence case.
Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad criticized Banerjee for prioritizing her political reputation over the safety and honor of women in Bengal. He also questioned the silence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on the matter.
Mamata Banerjee’s Response
In response to the BJP’s allegations, Mamata Banerjee condemned what she termed as the BJP’s “divisive politics.”
She accused the BJP of overstepping constitutional boundaries by labeling anyone wearing a turban as a Khalistani. Banerjee vehemently defended the reputation of Sikh individuals, highlighting their sacrifices and dedication to the nation.
Silence of Opposition Parties
Ravi Shankar Prasad also questioned the silence of other political parties, including the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) and the Congress, on the Sandeshkhali incident. He criticized the CPI(M) for not opposing the incident publicly and highlighted Rahul Gandhi’s silence on the matter.
Alleged Insult to IPS Officer
Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury condemned BJP leaders for allegedly insulting a Sikh police officer by referring to him as a Khalistani. He emphasized the need to respect individuals regardless of their religion and urged the BJP to issue a public apology for the incident.
Similarly, AAP leader Gopal Rai denounced the humiliation of the IPS officer and called for a public apology from the BJP.
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Police Officer’s Reaction
The IPS officer in question, Jaspreet Singh, expressed his outrage at being labeled a Khalistani due to his turban.
He questioned the BJP legislators’ audacity in making such remarks and defended his duty as a police officer irrespective of his religious attire.
Legal Action and Counterclaims
Following the incident, an FIR was registered against an unidentified person under Section 66 (C) of the IT Act by the Khar Police Station.
The BJP leader, Suvendu Adhikari, challenged the police to prove the allegations against him or face consequences.
The Sandeshkhali incident has ignited political tensions, with accusations and condemnations flying between various parties.
While the BJP accuses Mamata Banerjee of hiding information and questions the silence of other political leaders, Banerjee retaliates, condemning the BJP’s alleged divisive politics and defending the reputation of Sikh individuals.
Amidst the political turmoil, the demand for justice and accountability remains paramount.
