Kolkata: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Gaurav Bhatia on Monday called for the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of siding with the rapists rather than supporting the victim's family. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Bhatia criticized Banerjee’s response to the Supreme Court's handling of the case, stating that the head of India’s democracy has "bowed in shame" following a two-hour hearing.

Bhatia alleged that during the Supreme Court hearing, it was revealed that there was at least a 14-hour delay in registering the FIR. He questioned whether Mamata Banerjee should continue as Chief Minister and suggested that if evidence showed her involvement in tampering with evidence, a polygraph test and possible arrest might be necessary to ensure justice.

The BJP leader further criticized the West Bengal police, suggesting they should be suspended for failing to protect the public. He demanded that Banerjee’s call records, along with those of the police commissioner and ex-principal, be made public to scrutinize their actions during the incident. Bhatia also addressed accusations that the police pressured the victim’s family and denied claims by Abhishek Banerjee, accusing him of spreading false information about the victim’s condition.

Earlier, the Supreme Court ordered the immediate removal of all photos of the victim from social media and instructed that no action should be taken against doctors if they resume work by 5 PM the following day. The Court also noted that further absence might result in disciplinary action. Senior Advocate Geeta Luthra reported threats against doctors, leading the Court to ensure their safety and proper facilities in hospitals.

The Court raised concerns about the handling of the post-mortem report, with Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal pointing out issues such as the improper preservation of a vaginal swab. The Court directed the CBI to submit an updated status report by September 17 and inquired about CCTV footage of the incident. SG Mehta confirmed that four video clips had been provided to the CBI for further examination.

The trainee doctor’s body was discovered in the seminar room of R.G. Kar hospital on August 9, igniting widespread protests. A civic volunteer and Dr. Sandip Ghosh have been arrested in connection with the case, with ongoing investigations continuing.

UP Health Official Drowns in River Ganga; Body Recovered After Delayed Rescue

DK Shivakumar Denies Reports of Meeting US Leaders, Clarifies Private Nature of Visit

Surat Bulldozer Action Against Accused of Ganeshotsav Pandal Stone-Pelting Incident