Sandeshkhali row

WEST Bengal’s Sandeshkhali made headlines when Enforcement Directorate officials were attacked by supporters of Trinamool Congress (TMC) strongman Sheikh Shahjahan on January 5. The raid in North 24 Parganas district was in connection with a ration scam. A month later, women took to the streets, demanding his arrest and that of his aides. Allegations of sexual exploitation were levelled. The TMC leader and others were also accused of land-grab and forcing men to work without pay. Three days of violent protests followed. Sheikh continues to be on the run. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been blaming the Opposition, primarily the BJP, for fomenting trouble. Her comment that her detractors are making a mountain out of a molehill is deplorable. A responsible approach is expected, especially from a self-professed champion of women’s rights.

The government claims that despite an assurance of safety, not a single woman spoke of sexual harassment when a women’s police team visited the violence-hit village. Complaints were registered that villagers were forced to attend TMC meetings. Gangrape charges have been added after a woman gave a statement before a judicial magistrate. The National Commission for Women has highlighted widespread fear and systematic abuse, while the National Commission for Scheduled Castes has recommended the imposition of President’s rule in the state. The observations being dismissed as nothing but an extension of the saffron agenda does not inspire confidence that the state government would ensure a comprehensive inquiry.

The CM must also take cognisance of the plight of women prisoners. Besides overcrowding in jails, an amicus curiae has pointed out the issue of many inmates getting pregnant. A ban has been sought on the entry of male staff of correctional homes into women’s enclosures.