source - Internet
Kolkata: In the wake of widespread outrage over the horrific rape and murder at a Kolkata hospital, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has taken a firm stance, organizing a rally today to demand the death penalty for those responsible. She has issued a Sunday deadline to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which has taken over the investigation, to ensure that the culprits face the ultimate punishment.
“The CBI must expedite its investigation and facilitate the hanging of the guilty by Sunday, August 18. Our Kolkata Police has already completed 90 percent of the investigation,” Banerjee asserted.
The announcement of a rally led by the Chief Minister, who also oversees the state’s home department, has surprised many, especially as the police have faced criticism for allegedly mishandling the case. Detractors have accused the Trinamool Congress of attempting to interfere with evidence.
Derek O’Brien, Trinamool MP and party spokesperson, explained the rationale behind Banerjee’s decision to hit the streets.
“It is impossible to imagine a crime more barbaric and heinous than the rape and murder of a young woman in Kolkata. The public outrage is entirely justified, and our thoughts are with her family,” O’Brien stated as he defended the planned rally.
He emphasized that the CBI, now in charge of the investigation, must provide daily updates. “The deadline given by the Chief Minister to the Kolkata Police to conclude the investigation was August 17, and the same standard should apply to the CBI,” he added.
O’Brien noted that while the Kolkata Police had already arrested one suspect, true justice would only be served when the CBI apprehends all those involved and ensures that the case is expedited through a fast-track court.
“Handing over the case to the CBI should not result in it being quietly shelved. Swift justice and the harshest punishment for the culprits are imperative. No one involved in this atrocious act should be spared,” the former quiz master turned politician insisted.
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O’Brien also called for action against those responsible for the violent attack on the hospital where the crime occurred, revealing that 19 individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident.
The tragedy at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital has ignited protests and strikes by doctors nationwide. The hospital was vandalized by an angry mob during a midnight protest just two days ago.
Earlier, Banerjee had promised to hand over the investigation to the CBI if the police failed to resolve the case by Sunday. However, the Calcutta High Court stepped in, directing the CBI to take over the investigation without further delay.
With the CBI now at the helm, Banerjee has shifted her ultimatum, urging the central agency to complete the investigation promptly and bring those responsible to justice by Sunday.
