KOLKATA: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has urged the people to "return to festivities" with protests over the RG Kar incident continuing in the state. Doctors, civil society groups and people are also voicing against the poor infrastructure of state run hospitals, indulgence of top administration in a medical scam.
The timing of Mamata’s comment has received criticism from all corners. Monika Shaha, a social media influencer said “CM cannot dictate on how to celebrate the Puja. We all know what Durga Puja means for all of us. We want justice for the RG Kar victim first.”
The CM also claimed she had never offered money to the deceased doctor's parents, dismissing a campaign that the family members of the postgraduate trainee were offered money. "I have never offered money to the deceased doctor's family, this is nothing but slander. I have told the parents that if they want to do something in their daughter's memory, our government is with them. I know when to say what," she said.
She also alleged that the Centre was conspiring over the public outcry involving the alleged rape and murder of the postgraduate trainee doctor.
"This (protest following the RG Kar incident) is definitely a conspiracy by the Centre and some Left parties are also involved in it. Some people are taking advantage of the turmoil in the neighbouring country. They have forgotten that India and Bangladesh are separate nations," she said.
Banerjee, who also takes care of the home department, said Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal has offered to resign in the wake of the protests, but she also noted "We need someone who knows law and order ahead of Durga puja."