Centre vs Mamata: Union Minister Criticizes Bengal CM’s Letter to PM Modi on Rape Cases
A fresh political clash erupted between the Centre and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following her recent letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling for a stringent Central law to address heinous crimes like rape and murder. In a swift response, Union Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi criticized Mamata’s claims, labeling the data provided as “inaccurate” and accusing the West Bengal government of attempting to cover up delays in handling such cases.
Mamata Banerjee’s letter, dated August 30, emphasized the urgency of stronger laws to combat violent crimes. However, Annapurna Devi pointed out that the Bengal CM’s focus should be on the prompt establishment and operationalization of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) in the state, specifically for dealing with rape cases and those under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The Union Minister urged the West Bengal government to fully implement existing central legislation and take proactive steps to ensure that these sensitive cases are handled efficiently. The exchange underscores the ongoing tensions between the state and central governments over law enforcement and the protection of women’s rights in West Bengal.