BJP Launches ‘Kanya Suraksha Yatra’ in Kolkata Amid Outrage Over Gang Rape Case

In the wake of the recent gang rape of a law college student in Kolkata, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stepped up its protests against the West Bengal government, launching a massive ‘Kanya Suraksha Yatra’ (Daughters’ Safety March) across the city. The incident, which occurred at the South Calcutta Law College, has sparked widespread anger and calls for justice, with political parties, student groups, and civil society organizations demanding urgent action to ensure the safety of women in West Bengal.

Protest Marches and Political Outcry

The ‘Kanya Suraksha Yatra’, organized by the BJP, saw hundreds of party workers, students, and women’s rights activists marching through central Kolkata, holding placards that read “Justice for Kolkata Survivor”, “Safe Campuses Now”, and “End Violence Against Women”. The march was led by senior BJP leaders who accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of failing to protect women and demanded immediate, transparent investigation into the case.

Addressing the crowd, BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar said, “We are on the streets to demand justice for our daughters. The government has failed to provide security to women, and this horrific incident is proof that the law and order situation in Bengal has collapsed. We will not stop until the victim gets justice and the culprits are punished.”

The BJP has also called for the resignation of key state officials, claiming that the administration is trying to shield the accused due to their alleged political connections. The party has promised to continue its agitation until the state government takes concrete steps to improve women’s safety.

Widespread Public Anger

The gang rape case has triggered a wave of protests across Kolkata, with students, women’s groups, and ordinary citizens joining the BJP-led yatra as well as independent demonstrations. Social media has been flooded with messages of solidarity for the survivor and demands for urgent reforms.

The incident has also intensified political tensions in the state, with opposition parties uniting in their criticism of the TMC government. Many have pointed out that this is not an isolated case, but part of a larger pattern of violence against women in West Bengal. “The safety of women cannot be compromised. We need strict laws, effective policing, and a change in mindset,” said a protester at the rally.

Government Response and Ongoing Investigation

In response to the mounting protests, the Kolkata Police have assured the public that the investigation is proceeding swiftly. The two main accused, both students of the same college, have been arrested and charged with gang rape. CCTV footage from the college premises reportedly confirms the survivor’s account, showing her being dragged inside the building by the accused.

The West Bengal government has promised a thorough investigation and pledged to review security arrangements in educational institutions. However, protestors and political opponents remain skeptical, alleging that previous promises have not translated into real change.

A Call for Long-term Reforms

As the ‘Kanya Suraksha Yatra’ continues across Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal, activists are calling for long-term reforms to address the root causes of gender-based violence. “This is not just about one case. We need systemic changes—better surveillance, stricter enforcement of laws, and more support for survivors,” said Rina Dutta, a women’s rights advocate.

The BJP has announced plans to organize similar yatras in other cities and to raise the issue in the state assembly. As public pressure mounts, all eyes are on the state government and law enforcement agencies to deliver justice and restore confidence in women’s safety.