Mahua Moitra Slams TMC Leaders Over Kolkata Gangrape Remarks: ‘Misogyny Cuts Across Party Lines’

Mahua Moitra Condemns Remarks by TMC Leaders in Kolkata Gangrape Case, Says ‘Misogyny Cuts Across Party Lines.’

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra on Saturday publicly criticized the controversial remarks made by party leaders Kalyan Banerjee and Madan Mitra regarding the recent gangrape case in Kolkata. Reacting to the party’s official statement distancing itself from the comments, Moitra emphasized that misogyny in India transcends political affiliations.

Taking to social media platform X, Moitra wrote, “Misogyny in India cuts across party lines. The difference is that our party has the courage to condemn these disgusting comments no matter who makes them.”

Her remarks came shortly after the TMC posted a statement disassociating itself from the views expressed by Banerjee and Mitra. The party clarified that their statements were made in a personal capacity and did not reflect the TMC’s stance. Reaffirming its position, the party said it has “zero tolerance for crimes against women” and demanded the “strictest possible punishment” for those found guilty.

The Case So Far
The incident in question involves the gangrape of a law student inside the premises of South Calcutta Law College in the Kasba area. The FIR was registered on June 26, a day after the assault allegedly took place. Kolkata Police have arrested three accused—two current students and one former student of the college, Monojit Mishra, who is considered the prime accused.

Backlash Over Leaders’ Remarks
TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee triggered outrage by questioning, “What can be done if a friend rapes a friend?” while speaking to the media. He also remarked on the limits of police protection, suggesting such incidents are difficult to prevent if they happen between students within academic institutions.

Similarly, MLA Madan Mitra attracted criticism after appearing to blame the survivor, saying, “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.”

These statements were widely condemned, with BJP leader Amit Malviya calling them “plain and vile victim-blaming.”

The TMC’s swift distancing from the remarks, along with Moitra’s strong condemnation, has drawn attention to the internal political response to crimes against women and the broader issue of gender sensitivity in public discourse.