After the bill’s passage, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep concern over the crimes against women across the country while speaking in the assembly. She cited the 2020 rape of a 20-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, and the 2013 brutal rape and murder of a college student in the North 24 Parganas district of Bengal. She also highlighted a recent incident in Jaipur, where a child was raped in a government hospital. Banerjee accused states like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat of having abnormally high crime rates against women, where justice is often denied to the victims. She emphasized that women in West Bengal will receive justice, and this bill will ensure that perpetrators receive strict punishment.

Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari supported the bill, stating that the law should be implemented immediately. He mentioned that it is the responsibility of the state government to enforce the bill and deliver results. He also demanded that the bill be implemented without any delay.

Key Provisions of the Anti-Rape Bill

This bill provides for stringent punishments for those convicted of rape and murder. The key points include:

1. Death Penalty: Provision for the death penalty for those convicted of rape and murder.

2. Charge Sheet and Punishment: The provision of the death penalty within 36 days of filing the charge sheet.

3. Speedy Investigation: Investigations must be completed within 21 days under this bill.

4. Punishment for Aiding Criminals: Provision of a 5-year imprisonment for those who aid the criminals.

5. Special Task Force: A special “Aparajita Task Force” will be formed in each district to take immediate action on cases of rape, acid attacks, and molestation.

6. Punishment for Acid Attack: Provision of life imprisonment for those convicted of acid attacks.

7. Punishment for Revealing Victim’s Identity: Provision of 3 to 5 years of imprisonment for revealing the identity of the victim.

8. Speedy Trials: The bill includes a provision to amend the BNSS laws, ensuring that all sexual offenses and acid attack cases are heard within 30 days.

For this bill to become law, it now requires the approval of the Governor and the President. Passing this bill in the assembly was relatively easy because the Trinamool Congress has the support of 223 legislators in the 294-member assembly. However, obtaining the approval of the Governor and the President might be challenging. The 2019 Andhra Pradesh Disha Bill and the 2020 Maharashtra Shakti Bill, which also provided for the death penalty in all rape cases, have yet to receive presidential approval. This bill amends parts of the BNSS and the 2012 POCSO Act to include the death penalty for sexual assault cases, regardless of the victim’s age. Amidst public outrage and demands for justice following the trainee doctor’s incident in Kolkata, Mamata Banerjee decided to introduce this anti-rape bill. The bill’s becoming law will now depend on whether it receives the necessary approvals from the Governor and the President.

In the early days of 1993, West Bengal was under the Left Front government led by Jyoti Basu. During that time, a physically disabled girl was raped in Nadia district. The incident caused an uproar in the state, and attacks on Jyoti Basu’s government began. Mamata Banerjee, who was an emerging leader at the time, brought the victim to the West Bengal government secretariat, the Writers’ Building. Mamata accused the government of not arresting the culprits due to their political connections and demanded a meeting with the then-Chief Minister Jyoti Basu. When her demand was not met, she began a sit-in protest in front of the CM’s chamber.

When Jyoti Basu refused to meet Mamata Banerjee, the police forcibly removed her and the victim from the secretariat. Female police officers dragged Mamata down the stairs, tearing her clothes in the process. After this incident, Mamata vowed that she would only set foot in that building again when she became the Chief Minister. After 18 years of struggle, Mamata entered the building as Chief Minister on May 20, 2011, shaking the foundations of Left rule in West Bengal. Mamata Banerjee continued her protests and demonstrations against the Left Front government for 18 years. Her struggle shook the foundation of Leftist rule and eventually brought her to power. It is said that former Chief Minister Jyoti Basu was so upset with Mamata’s politics that he never publicly mentioned her name, always referring to her as “that woman.”

Mamata Banerjee’s political career has been filled with struggles and controversies. The recent rape-murder case of a doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Hospital has once again put Mamata under scrutiny. But this is not the first time Mamata Banerjee’s role in rape cases has been questioned. There was an incident in Hanskhali, where Mamata dismissed the rape case as an “affair.” Similarly, when people protested against a rape in Kamudini, she labeled them as CPI(M) supporters. Mamata Banerjee’s controversial statements on rape cases during her tenure have often made headlines, especially when the allegations involved members of her party. Throughout her years in power, Mamata has often labeled rape cases as “false.” When asked to respond to rape cases as a woman leader, she presents herself as a victim. If the opposition questions her, Mamata does not hesitate to turn the tables and accuse them instead.

The rape-murder case of a trainee doctor in Kolkata has once again put Mamata Banerjee’s leadership under the spotlight. The role of her government and the statements she has made regarding rape cases remain fresh in people’s memories. The people of West Bengal, who have witnessed Mamata Banerjee’s struggle and courage, are now asking her why her approach to heinous crimes like rape is so passive. The question on everyone’s mind is whether Mamata Banerjee will show the same courage today as she did in 1993.

Dr. Bose said that despite such an incident occurring with a female doctor, the police did not conduct a proper and impartial investigation. He mentioned that there is an atmosphere of outrage across the state, with people taking to the streets to demand justice. This justice is important not just for the victim but for the entire society. In an interview with media, the Governor also expressed his views on the possibility of imposing President’s Rule in Bengal. He said that there have been demands for President’s Rule, and he will remain vigilant on this issue. However, he also made it clear that he would keep his options open at this time and would not disclose his next steps under the Constitution.

Dr. Bose further stated that this case is not just a law-and-order issue but a matter of tampering with the judicial and constitutional structure of society. He expressed concern over the vandalism incidents at RG Kar Hospital and said that he himself visited the site on Thursday. There, he saw that people are simply demanding justice, and it is the state’s responsibility to deliver it.

The Governor said that since this incident, a climate of discontent and distrust has developed in society. He urged the police and administration to conduct an impartial investigation and ensure that the culprits are punished. He also stated that if the police and administration do not handle this case properly, it could send a dangerous message to society. In conclusion, the Governor said that this incident has shaken every section of society. It has made it clear that the administration must take its responsibilities seriously to maintain law and order and ensure justice in society.

By Neelam Singh.

One of the key initiatives is the Hindustan Urvarak and Rasayan Ltd (HURL) Sindri Fertiliser Plant, developed at a cost of over ₹8,900 crore. This plant will significantly contribute to the country’s urea production, benefiting farmers across the nation. It is the third fertilizer plant to be revived under the leadership of PM Modi, following the successful revival of plants in Gorakhpur and Ramagundam.

In addition to the fertilizer plant, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several rail projects worth more than ₹17,600 crore. These projects, including the expansion of rail services and the construction of new rail lines, will improve connectivity and promote socio-economic development in Jharkhand.

The Prime Minister also flagged off three trains during the program, further enhancing transportation infrastructure in the state. These include the Deoghar-Dibrugarh train service, the MEMU train service between Tatanagar and Badampahar, and a long-haul freight train from Shivpur station.

Furthermore, PM Modi dedicated important power projects in Jharkhand, including Unit 1 (660 MW) of the North Karanpura Super Thermal Power Project (STPP) in Chatra. This project, developed at a cost of over ₹7,500 crore, will improve power supply in the region and contribute to employment generation and socio-economic development.

The Prime Minister also dedicated projects related to the coal sector in Jharkhand, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable energy sources.

PM Modi’s visit to Jharkhand is part of a larger two-day tour that also includes visits to West Bengal and Bihar. During his visit, he will participate in a public program in Arambagh, Hooghly, where he will inaugurate, dedicate, and lay the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth more than ₹7,200 crore.

PM Modi’s initiatives in Jharkhand underscore the government’s commitment to promoting inclusive development and improving the quality of life for citizens across the country.

BY – KASHISH JAIN

Shahjahan and his associates have faced accusations of engaging in sexual atrocities on women and involvement in land grabbing in Sandeshkhali, a region in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district. The arrest took place around midnight, and Sheikh Shahjahan is now in 10-day police custody.

Sheikh Shahjahan, a central figure in the January 5, 2024, assault on ED officers, has been apprehended by West Bengal police after over a month on the run. South Bengal ADG Supratim Sarkar stated the case doesn’t involve Section 354 complaints, and Shahjahan will face the Basirhat court. Amid sexual assault allegations dating back two years, investigations, post February 7, 8, 9, require time for evidence gathering. The arrest follows a Calcutta High Court directive, heightening tensions in Sandeshkhali, drawing criticism from BJP’s Amit Malviya and impacting local legal and political dynamics.

Law enforcement officials had been monitoring Shahjahan’s activities for several days leading up to the arrest. The Calcutta High Court Chief Justice’s order on February 26 played a crucial role in expediting the arrest, stating, “There is no reason to not arrest him.”

The ruling Trinamool Congress welcomed the arrest, attributing it to the court’s clearance of hurdles and accusing the opposition of exploiting the earlier “embargo” on Shahjahan’s arrest. However, the BJP criticized the arrest, labeling it as scripted and alleging that Shahjahan was in the safe custody of the West Bengal Police.

Sandeshkhali had been witnessing widespread protests against Sheikh Shahjahan, with a section of women demanding justice for alleged atrocities committed by the TMC leader, including land grabbing and sexual assault. Shahjahan, who has been embroiled in multiple criminal cases, including the murder of three BJP workers in 2019, had been on the run since January 5.

The Enforcement Directorate had also accused Sheikh Shahjahan of money laundering in ration and land scams, with additional allegations of violence against power department employees in West Bengal, resulting in an FIR filed against him.

The BJP had accused the Mamata Banerjee government of shielding Sheikh Shahjahan after a mob of his supporters attacked an Enforcement Directorate team conducting raids against him in a corruption case. The arrest is anticipated to have a significant impact on the political landscape in the region, as the legal proceedings against Shahjahan unfold.

During a press conference, Banerjee stated that her government would launch an Aadhaar Grievances Portal to address the concerns of individuals whose Aadhaar cards have been deactivated..

Banerjee’s letter to the Prime Minister highlighted the lack of prior intimation or opportunity for the cardholders to be heard before their Aadhaar cards were deactivated. She also expressed concern about the potential impact on the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and the poor sections of society.

The Chief Minister suggested that the deactivation of Aadhaar cards was part of a larger plan to prepare the National Register of Citizens (NRC). She urged the Matua and SC/ST communities to understand the BJP’s intentions and assured them that her government would not allow the NRC or detention camps in Bengal.

Banerjee criticized the BJP-led central government, calling the deactivation of Aadhaar cards a “fascist conspiracy.” She accused the BJP of instigating violence and creating panic among the people. Banerjee also announced that her government would send a team to the Election Commission of India to address the issue.

In response to Banerjee’s concerns, Union Minister Shantanu Thakur assured that the deactivation process had been stopped, and those whose cards had been deactivated would get them back. He explained that the deactivation was due to a technical fault and urged people to submit their applications for reactivation.

Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari also assured that all deactivated cards would be reactivated within 24 hours. He thanked Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Minister of Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw for their intervention in the matter.

Meanwhile, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) clarified that no Aadhaar numbers had been canceled. The UIDAI assured that any deactivated cards would be reactivated in a few days.

Banerjee reaffirmed her dedication to providing assistance to beneficiaries of state-run welfare programs, even if they lack an Aadhaar card. She urged individuals to disregard any false information and assured them that her administration would take appropriate measures to resolve their issues.

By – Kashish Jain

The court took note of allegations made by women in the area, including issues of land grabbing, and expressed concern over one individual holding the entire population hostage with the ruling dispensation’s backing. Chief Justice Sivagnanam stated that “prima facie material” indicates Shahjahan’s detrimental impact on the public, highlighting his evasion after alleged crimes.

Questioning the imposition of prohibitory orders while Shahjahan remains at large, the court criticized the state government for creating unnecessary tension and harassment among locals. The court emphasized the importance of letting people express their views and cautioned against stifling voices. The court also addressed the state government’s challenge to the order halting prohibitory measures, citing concerns about law and order. The state’s counsel mentioned reservations about political leaders’ visits potentially causing trouble in the area.

Shahjahan has been evading arrest for a month since an Enforcement Directorate team faced a mob attack during a corruption case raid at his home. Allegations of land grab, extortion, and sexual assault against Shahjahan and his aides have surfaced in recent weeks. Despite multiple cases and an attack on ED officials, Shahjahan remains at large, leading the court to express surprise at the failure to apprehend him.

The high court has granted permission for BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and BJP MLA Shankar Ghosh to visit Sandeshkhali, upholding a previous order. However, the BJP leaders were reportedly stopped on their way to Sandeshkhali this morning. There are reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may visit the area, according to statements from Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari on Monday.

Critiquing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Adhikari asserted that the situation in Sandeshkhali is a consequence of Banerjee’s apprehension about losing the Lok Sabha elections. He alleged that Sheikh was not apprehended because the TMC requires the support of individuals like him during elections and has consequently granted him protection.

Several women in Sandeshkhali have recently come forward, accusing the local TMC leader and his associates of both land grabbing and sexual assault. Sheikh has been evading authorities since Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials attempted a search at his residence, during which they were attacked by a mob, leading to the recall of the raid. In response, Mamata Banerjee has placed blame on the BJP, asserting that they orchestrated the incident in collaboration with the ED and the media. She claimed that no woman in Sandeshkhali has filed an FIR and accused the BJP of attempting to disturb the peace in West Bengal.

Banerjee asserted, “I have never allowed injustice in my life. I sent (representatives of) the state women’s commission (to Sandeshkhali) immediately, and 17 people have been arrested.” She responded to the BJP’s walkout in the Assembly over the issue, placing blame on the BJP for the unrest and claiming the Centre targeted local Trinamool leader Sheikh Shahjahan through the Enforcement Directorate.

She alleged that the BJP initiated the trouble by influencing people in the area and stated the existence of an RSS base in Sandeshkhali. Banerjee mentioned that a police team, including women, is meeting with residents in Sandeshkhali to investigate complaints, assuring that the government will take action if reports are filed.

The Sandeshkhali issue gained prominence when women accused Sheikh Shahjahan’s aides of sexual harassment. While the BJP criticized the Trinamool Congress government, the ruling party dismissed the charges and accused the BJP of attempting to create unrest.

 Discussions with women in Sandeshkhali revealed instances of intimidation, with some claiming threats if they refused to comply. The West Bengal Police denied allegations of sexual torture, stating that no such claims were received during the enquiries by the State Women’s Commission, CID, and the district police. The police accused a section of the media of spreading misinformation.

In response to the Sandeshkhali violence, BJP MP Dilip Ghosh accused Mamata Banerjee of shielding “criminals” like Shahjahan Sheikh. Ghosh alleged that Banerjee is protecting individuals from legal consequences, criticizing her leadership.

The tension in Sandeshkhali arose during a BJP-led protest against alleged sexual harassment, resulting in clashes with the police. BJP formed a committee of Union Ministers and MPs to assess the situation, with JP Nadda expressing concern over incidents in West Bengal, highlighting the collapse of law and order.

The agency officials were conducting searches at the properties of two block-level leaders, Shahjahan Sheikh and Shankar Adhya, along with their family members in North 24 Parganas.

The raid, initiated on Friday morning, was part of the ongoing investigation into the purported scam, which has already led to the arrest of state food minister Jyoti Priya Mallick. As the ED team sought to enter Shahjahan Sheikh’s house, a gathering of hundreds, comprised of both men and women, confronted them with slogans.

The situation escalated as the mob not only attacked the officials but also vandalized their vehicles, as reported . The whereabouts of Sheikh and his family during the raid remain undisclosed .An Enforcement Directorate (ED) team member informed ANI that eight individuals attacked them after they arrived at the spot.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials faced a violent assault, with a vehicle damaged and even the media targeted during a raid. The attack compelled the ED team to abandon the operation in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas, and retreat to Kolkata.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating state of democracy, BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar demanded the declaration of an emergency in West Bengal. Sarkar emphasized the increasing influence of anti-national organizations, highlighting the regular recovery of explosives and firearms.

He insisted that removing the current government and declaring an emergency would restore order and deter such attacks on law enforcement. West Bengal BJP Chief Sukanta Majumdar suggests the assault on ED officials reflects Bengal’s future. He links the incident to the Rohingyas, implying their impact on the state’s law and order.