Bengal Minister Sparks Outrage by Calling Kolkata Law College Gang-Rape a ‘Small Incident’, Later Issues Clarification

Bengal Minister Draws Flak for ‘Small Incident’ Remark Amid Outrage Over Kolkata Gang-Rape Case.

West Bengal Irrigation Minister Manas Bhunia has sparked political controversy after a video clip surfaced in which he allegedly referred to the recent gang-rape of a 24-year-old law student in Kolkata as a “small incident.” The comment, widely circulated on social media, triggered strong reactions from the BJP and reignited criticism of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leadership.

The incident in question took place on June 25 on the premises of South Calcutta Law College. The victim, a first-year student, was allegedly gang-raped by former student leaders affiliated with the TMC’s student wing, the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP). The primary accused, Monojit Mishra, has been arrested.

Sharing the video clip on social media platform X, BJP West Bengal co-incharge Amit Malviya accused TMC leaders of “normalising” sexual violence for political gain. “First, MLA Madan Mitra blamed the victim. Then MP Kalyan Banerjee downplayed rape between acquaintances. Now, Minister Manas Bhunia has dismissed the crime as a ‘small incident’,” Malviya wrote.

He also alleged that the victim was targeted by individuals closely linked to the TMC and that the party has institutionalised misogyny. “This is not just a crime — it reflects a deeper rot within the party,” Malviya stated, adding that the party prioritises political loyalty over justice.

In response, the TMC accused the BJP of distorting Bhunia’s comments to malign the party. The party claimed that the clip was “maliciously edited” and “taken out of context” as part of a “smear campaign.”

Minister Bhunia also issued a statement clarifying his position. “I strongly condemn the Kasba incident. The remarks being circulated are not related to this case and have been misrepresented to defame me,” he said. He added that the TMC does not tolerate such crimes and praised law enforcement for swift arrests in the case.

TMC further warned the BJP against spreading what it called “deliberate misinformation” and added, “No matter how loud the lies, the truth will prevail.”

The case has become a flashpoint in West Bengal’s political landscape, with opposition parties demanding stronger action and accountability from the state government amid mounting public outrage.