Governor Seeks Report on West Bengal Flogging as NHRC Issues Notice

The public flogging of a couple in Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, has caused widespread outrage. Governor CV Ananda Bose has requested a report from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The BJP has accused the ruling TMC of imposing Taliban-like rule in the state. Bose, currently in New Delhi, plans to visit Chopra on Tuesday to meet the victims and will likely report to the central government afterward.

Governor's Response

Governor Bose expressed shock at the incident, describing it as barbarous. He has demanded an immediate report from CM Banerjee. A Raj Bhavan official confirmed that Bose condemned the incident and is taking steps to address it. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has also issued a notice to the West Bengal government and the state's police chief regarding the incident.

The man seen in a viral video beating the couple with a bamboo stick was identified as Tajmul alias JCB, allegedly a TMC leader from Chopra. He was arrested last night and produced before a local court, which remanded him to five days of police custody. The inspector in charge of Chopra police station has been show-caused over the incident.

Political Reactions

BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia criticised the state government, stating, "Law and order have completely collapsed in West Bengal. Mamata Banerjee should resign forthwith as she is unable to ensure the safety and security of citizens." BJP president JP Nadda also condemned the TMC government, alleging that West Bengal is unsafe under its rule. He posted on X, "A horrific video has come to light from West Bengal, reminding of brutalities that exist only in theocracies."

In response to the incident, BJP women MLAs staged a protest on Monday at the Assembly premises. They highlighted alleged atrocities against women in various parts of the state. BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul said, "The appeasement politics of the TMC government has turned the state into a den of anti-social activities."

Police and NHRC Actions

The NHRC has directed its Director General Investigation to form a team led by an officer not below the rank of Senior Superintendent of Police. This team will conduct an on-the-spot fact-finding inquiry and submit a report to the Commission as soon as possible. The NHRC stated, "The main perpetrator is allegedly associated with the political party in power in West Bengal and could be seen in a viral video severely beating up the couple surrounded by a group of people."

The West Bengal police have stated that efforts are being made from certain quarters to spread misinformation and politicise the incident. They clarified that upon learning about the incident, they promptly identified and arrested Tajmul. A suo motu case has been initiated, and an investigation is ongoing. The victim has been provided with police security.

Local Reactions

Senior TMC leader Shantanu Sen mentioned that the state government is taking steps to address the situation. "We do not support such incidents. The victims have been provided with security. Anyone else involved will also not be spared," said Sen.

However, remarks by local MLA Hamidul Islam triggered anger from the BJP. Islam accused the couple of polluting society by engaging in an illicit relationship. He said, "The woman was at fault for getting involved in an illicit relationship despite having a son and husband. Is this not a crime? Is this not an immoral act?"

Paul criticised Islam's comments, questioning whether TMC has imposed Sharia law in West Bengal. She stated that such remarks by an elected representative are regressive and could encourage others to take law into their own hands.

According to police reports, a kangaroo court ordered the flogging due to allegations of an illicit relationship. Locals claim that Tajmul is notorious for conducting kangaroo courts and extorting money from people.

This incident highlights serious concerns about law enforcement and governance in West Bengal. It underscores the need for immediate action to ensure justice for victims and prevent such occurrences in future.