Union Minister Kiren Rijiju lashed out at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, criticizing her "victim-blaming" remark over the Durgapur gangrape case. He called out the "illiberal gang" for their silence on the issue.
On Friday, Mamata Banerjee questioned the authorities of a private college in Odisha's Durgapur, which led to the alleged gang rape of a second-year MBBS student. She stated that allowing a girl to step out of the campus, "located in a forested area," past midnight is shocking. The remarks soon sparked controversy, even being criticized by the NCW (National Commission for Women).
Reacting to the Durgapur gangrape, Mamata said, "How did they (the girl and her male friend) come out of the campus at 12:30 am? Wasn't it the responsibility of the college? I don't know why they were allowed to leave at that hour."
Union Parliamentary Minister Kiren Rijiju criticized Mamata over her remarks, saying, "Imagine, if this statement was made by a BJP Chief Minister! The whole echo-system and self-declared journalists (actually an illiberal gang) would have created an unbearable situation in the country."
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) October 12, 2025
Following the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital gang rape and murder in August 2024, Mamata Banerjee had to face a huge public outcry and doctors' protest. She said the police can't be present everywhere at all times of the day.
Mamata asked the students studying in other states to be careful and not venture out of campuses in forested areas late at night, if they are unfamiliar with the place or the city.
Mamata's statement came as three suspects were arrested in the Durgapur case. The male friend of the victim has been detained for interrogation.
The CM said, "No one (linked with the crime) will be spared. Cops are searching for everyone involved. All the guilty will be punished strictly."
The survivor's classmate and another man have also been detained for questioning. The man has been identified as Sheikh Nasiruddin (24), whose motorcycle was used by the accused to run away, and has been seized.