Mamata Banerjee, the 69-year-old Trinamool Congress chief, has long been known for her resilience in the face of political adversity. From forming her own party and challenging the Left’s dominance in West Bengal to fending off the BJP and overcoming obstacles from the Centre, she has navigated numerous political storms. However, the recent rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, along with her government’s handling of the situation, may present one of her most formidable challenges yet.
In the wake of the crime, the Calcutta High Court criticized the Bengal government, and the Supreme Court has now taken suo motu cognizance of the case. Despite Mamata’s personal intervention, which included joining protests, her efforts have not managed to placate the growing discontent. This situation is compounded by her dual role as both the Home and Health Minister, placing her at the heart of the controversy.
Earlier, Mamata’s responses to similar incidents seemed adequate. For instance, her dismissal of the 2012 Park Street gangrape as a “staged incident” and the slow police reaction to the 2013 Kamduni gangrape were seen as flaws. The Sandeshkhali sexual harassment allegations against TMC members were also brushed off as a conspiracy. However, the RG Kar case is different due to its high-profile nature and the involvement of a doctor in a major city.
Initially, Mamata appeared to address the situation appropriately, even suggesting the transfer of the probe to the CBI and advocating for a fast-track court. Despite her strong statements, criticisms have emerged, particularly regarding the delay in meeting the victim’s family and the appointment of Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar, to another prestigious position despite the cloud over his previous role.
The handling of the case has been further marred by recent events. On August 15, a violent mob attacked protesting doctors and nurses at RG Kar Hospital, with accusations that some TMC workers were involved. Mamata’s claim that opposition parties orchestrated the violence has been met with skepticism.
Additionally, the government’s decision to transfer 42 doctors, initially perceived as retaliatory, was quickly reversed amid backlash. Calls for Mamata’s resignation have been voiced by the BJP, CPI(M), and even some of her own party members. Notably, TMC Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray has criticized the government’s handling of the situation, questioning the management of the crime scene and the delay in deploying sniffer dogs.
The controversy has also led to internal dissent within the TMC. Former MP Shantanu Sen and veteran leader Sovandeb Chattopadhyay have both hinted at possible missteps by the party leadership. Some TMC leaders argue that the administration’s failure to immediately hand over the case to the CBI has damaged the party’s reputation.
As Mamata’s government grapples with multiple issues, including corruption allegations and electoral violations, the RG Kar case has exacerbated the challenges. While some TMC supporters rally behind Mamata, insisting that her government remains robust, the situation threatens to undermine the party’s credibility and its support base, particularly among women voters.
The ongoing crisis presents a critical test for Mamata Banerjee, one that could significantly impact her political career and the future of the Trinamool Congress.