The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reignited accusations of violence against women perpetrated by members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal. This comes after a video emerged on social media allegedly showing a woman being assaulted in public by men affiliated with the TMC.
The video, shared by BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya, depicts a group of men surrounding and whipping a woman. Malviya alleged that the attackers were associates of TMC MLA Madan Mitra and claimed they "routinely whip women in public. " He further linked the incident to a previous alleged lynching of a woman and her daughter by Mitra's associates.
The TMC has yet to respond to the latest allegations. However, in a previous incident involving a public "kangaroo court" punishment where a couple was whipped, TMC leaders condemned the act and distanced themselves from the accused, stating the individual held no official party position.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken cognizance of the video and expressed strong condemnation of the assault. The commission has urged West Bengal authorities to conduct a fair and time-bound investigation into the incident. The NCW has also emphasized the need for swift action, including the arrest of the accused and the provision of medical treatment to the victim.
This is not the first time the TMC has faced criticism over violence against women. The party has been accused of turning a blind eye to such incidents, particularly in rural areas. The BJP has capitalized on these accusations, portraying the TMC as fostering a culture of impunity and lawlessness in the state.
Independent observers have expressed concern about the rise in violence in West Bengal, urging all political parties to desist from making inflammatory statements and work towards ensuring the safety and security of women. Civil society organizations have also called for stricter enforcement of laws against violence and harassment, as well as improved access to justice for victims.
The veracity of the video and the extent of TMC involvement remain under investigation. However, the incident has undoubtedly cast a shadow on the party's record on women's safety and security. It is likely to further fuel political tensions in West Bengal in the lead-up to upcoming elections.