KOLKATA: Political activity intensified in West Bengal's Baruipur on Tuesday as leaders from various parties visited the family of the 12-year-old girl who was allegedly raped and murdered. Several leaders, however, faced protests and angry reactions from local residents during their visit.
Trinamool Congress leader Ritabrata Banerjee and MP Sayoni Ghosh encountered criticism from residents while visiting the victim's home. Locals questioned the delay in their visit, with some raising slogans against Ghosh. Despite the protests, both leaders met the bereaved family and expressed their condolences.
After the meeting, Ritabrata Banerjee said he had conveyed his sympathies to the victim's parents and expressed concern over the recurrence of such incidents in the state. He said the government must take firm action in such cases and ensure strict punishment for those found guilty. Banerjee also said he had previously discussed the matter with the Chief Minister and had sought justice for the victim.
Responding to the protests, Sayoni Ghosh said voters had every right to express their grievances if they were unhappy with her. She added that she was eventually allowed to meet the victim's family. Ghosh also claimed that the Baruipur case appeared to involve a larger criminal network. She said three people had already been arrested and expressed hope that further arrests would follow as the investigation progressed. According to her, the entire network behind the crime should be dismantled.
Meanwhile, Bhangar MLA and Indian Secular Front (ISF) chairman Naushad Siddique also visited the victim's family. Questioning the role of the police, he alleged that public anger had grown because of the police's alleged inaction following the incident. He demanded action against the officers concerned and called on the government to take exemplary steps to ensure women's safety.
Tension continues to prevail in the Baruipur area as the investigation progresses. Police have so far arrested three accused in connection with the case, while political leaders from different parties continue to visit the victim's family and seek accountability over the incident.
