TMC Leaders Clash Over Kolkata Gangrape Controversy

TMC Leaders in Heated Dispute

Two prominent leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Kalyan Banerjee and Mahua Moitra, have found themselves in a renewed conflict. This latest disagreement stems from a debate regarding the Kolkata law college gangrape incident, reigniting tensions that had simmered since a public dispute three months ago.

Kalyan Banerjee's Controversial Remarks

The situation escalated when Kalyan Banerjee made a contentious remark targeting the victim of the gangrape, suggesting that women should be aware of who they are associating with. Following the incident's revelation on Friday, he told reporters in Kolkata, 'Those who are hanging out with such individuals should understand who they are with.' This statement was widely criticized as victim-blaming.

Mahua Moitra's Response

In retaliation, Mahua Moitra criticized her party for not condemning the 'baseless statements' made by its leaders. She tagged TMC's official post on 'X' (formerly Twitter), stating, 'Hatred towards women in India transcends party lines. What sets @AITCofficial apart is that we condemn these abhorrent comments, regardless of who makes them.'

Banerjee Attacks Moitra's Personal Life

Following Moitra's criticism, Kalyan Banerjee launched a personal attack on her marriage. He remarked, 'Mahua returned to India after her honeymoon and started fighting with me! She accuses me of being anti-woman, but what is she? She ended a 40-year marriage and married a 65-year-old man. Hasn't she harmed women? A parliamentarian expelled for moral violations is lecturing me! She is the biggest anti-woman.'

Background on Mahua Moitra's Marriage

It is noteworthy that Mahua Moitra recently married former BJD MP Pinaki Mishra from Odisha. Banerjee's comments represent a direct and harsh attack on Moitra's personal life, further intensifying the ongoing dispute.