A group of 295 eminent personalities, including former high court judges, police chiefs, bureaucrats, and other distinguished figures, have issued a scathing joint statement condemning the West Bengal government’s handling of the brutal rape and murder case at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The incident, which has shocked the nation, has been described by the signatories as a glaring indicator of the deteriorating socio-cultural environment in the state and the increasing threats faced by women.
In their statement, the group expressed deep concern over what they perceive as widespread “apathy, misgovernance, and lack of accountability” within Kolkata and across West Bengal. They argued that the state government’s “apparent inclination” to shield perpetrators rather than protect victims constitutes a “grave miscarriage of justice” and sets a dangerous precedent.
“This tragic incident is not an isolated event but part of a broader pattern of violence that has plagued West Bengal for years,” the statement read. The signatories highlighted the prevalence of violence in various aspects of public life in the state, emphasizing that the current situation reflects a systemic failure in governance and law enforcement.
The statement was signed by a diverse array of prominent figures, including former police chiefs, ex-ambassadors, and veterans, all of whom called for urgent and decisive action to ensure justice for the victim and to restore public trust in the state’s institutions. They urged the state government to prioritize the protection of citizens, particularly women, and to hold those responsible for such heinous crimes accountable.
The group’s condemnation comes amidst growing public outrage and calls for justice in the aftermath of the horrific crime. The signatories stressed that without accountability and effective governance, the safety and security of women in West Bengal would remain under severe threat.
The joint statement serves as a powerful call to action, urging the West Bengal government to address the deep-rooted issues that have led to this tragedy and to take immediate steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The signatories concluded by demanding that justice be served swiftly and that the rights and safety of women in the state be upheld with the utmost seriousness.