Agnimitra Paul Criticises Mamata Banerjee Over Proposed Visit to Baruipur Victim’s Family

Kolkata: West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul on Monday launched a sharp attack on Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee over her reported plan to visit the family of the 11-year-old girl who was allegedly raped and murdered in Baruipur.

Addressing the media, Paul accused the former Chief Minister of selectively responding to incidents of violence and alleged that the TMC government had failed to stand by victims of crimes against women during its tenure.

“Mamata Banerjee didn’t find the time to visit in 15 years. So many such incidents occurred during that period, but neither she nor her ministers, MLAs or MPs visited the victims’ families,” Paul said.

Referring to cases such as RG Kar, Hanskhali, Kamduni, and Park Street, the minister alleged that the previous government mishandled several high-profile crimes and failed to deliver justice. She also claimed that while Banerjee had visited states such as Manipur, Unnao, and Hathras over incidents there, she did not extend similar support to victims within West Bengal.

Paul further alleged that Banerjee’s proposed visit to Baruipur was politically motivated and intended to create unrest.

“You will not be allowed to play politics. Our government will not allow anyone to incite people or disturb law and order,” she said, asserting that the BJP-led government under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari was committed to taking firm action in crimes against women.

The minister also criticized former Women and Child Development Minister Shashi Panja and senior TMC leader Chandrima Bhattacharya, alleging that they had not adequately responded to similar incidents during the previous administration.

The remarks come amid heightened political tensions in West Bengal following the alleged rape and murder of the minor girl in Baruipur, an incident that has triggered widespread outrage and renewed debate over women’s safety and the political handling of crimes against women.