Mahua Moitra Slams Misogyny, Supports TMC’s Rejection of Party Leaders’ Remarks on Kolkata Gangrape Case

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on Saturday publicly backed her party’s decision to distance itself from controversial remarks made by TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee and MLA Madan Mitra in connection with the recent gangrape case in Kolkata.

Taking to social media platform X, Moitra condemned the comments and highlighted the broader issue of gender bias. “Misogyny in India cuts across party lines,” she wrote, adding, “The difference is — TMC condemns these disgusting comments no matter who makes them.”

Moitra also shared the official statement issued by the Trinamool Congress, which made it clear that the remarks by Banerjee and Mitra were made in their “personal capacities” and did not reflect the views of the party. The TMC reiterated its “zero tolerance” stance on crimes against women and called for the “strictest possible punishment” for those involved in the incident.

The case involves the gangrape of a law student within the premises of South Calcutta Law College in the Kasba area. Three men have been arrested, including two current students and one former student, Monojit Mishra, who has been identified as the prime accused. The survivor filed an FIR on June 26, a day after the assault.

The controversy erupted after Banerjee made dismissive remarks, questioning, “What can be done if a friend rapes his friend?” While acknowledging that the accused should be arrested, he appeared to shift responsibility, asking, “Who will protect her?”

MLA Madan Mitra further fueled outrage by implying that the victim should not have gone to the location where the incident occurred. “If someone calls you when the college is closed offering you a position in the unit, then don’t go. Nothing good will come of it,” he said.

The BJP strongly criticized the remarks, calling them blatant victim-blaming. “This is victim-blaming, plain and vile,” said Amit Malviya, BJP’s West Bengal co-incharge.

As public backlash grew, the TMC’s swift disassociation from the statements and Moitra’s vocal condemnation signaled the party’s effort to distance itself from comments that many have labeled insensitive and regressive.