The Supreme Court’s decision to take cognizance of the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 31-year-old junior doctor at KR Medical College in Kolkata, albeit delayed, is a welcome move. This action follows nationwide protests and is crucial given the increasing vulnerability of medical professionals not only in Kolkata but across the country. Despite multiple petitions already filed seeking justice for the doctor’s fraternity, the Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the severity of the situation. The incident also raises serious questions about the leadership in West Bengal. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who also holds the Health and Home portfolios, chose to take to the streets rather than directing law enforcement to swiftly apprehend the culprits. This bizarre ‘street stunt’ has likely not only frustrated the citizens but also prompted the Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, to take action. The Supreme Court’s suo moto decision to hear the case and its directive to the state government to ensure the safety of doctors in every hospital underscores the gravity of the situation.
What is even more troubling is the reported organized attack on the hospital premises, seemingly under the watchful eye of both the Chief Minister and her police, possibly to destroy evidence. Allegations suggest that the Mamata Banerjee government, soon after the incident, attempted to erase circumstantial evidence by permitting construction activities at the crime scene, allegedly involving suspected TMC goons. Adding to the concerns is the inaction of the BJP-led central government, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is known for his decisive leadership. The continued lawlessness in West Bengal raises the question: why has the Centre not taken more robust action? Is the Prime Minister waiting for a tipping point before intervening? This situation calls for decisive leadership to prevent further deterioration of law and order in the state.
Added to that is an article page article’s commentary in a local English daily suggesting that Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, a controversial figure linked with external influences, could restore peace in neighboring Bangladesh, to receive Nobel for the second time, is laughable at best. It exposes the double standards of left-wing ideologues who, while criticizing Western hegemony, seem to align with it when convenient. Returning to West Bengal, the Supreme Court must now consider the possibility of recommending President’s Rule to restore order in the state. With the Legislature and Executive failing miserably, the judiciary remains the last bastion of hope for the people. Despite the court’s controversial decisions in the past, especially the interpretation of Art 21 of the Indian Constitution saying that ‘bail’ is a right and ‘jail’ is an exception, yet its role is now crucial in advising the Centre to take decisive action against the TMC-led government to prevent the spread of anarchy to other states.
The situation in Karnataka, where the Congress Chief Minister has been caught in a web of corruption, further illustrates the potential for similar unrest in that state too in coming days. The Opposition, emboldened by external forces, appears intent on destabilizing the nation, echoing threats that India could face chaos similar to what has transpired in its neighbourhood. In this context, the Supreme Court must act swiftly and firmly. The threats of division and unrest, reminiscent of the events leading up to 1947, cannot be ignored. The judiciary’s decisive action is imperative to ensure that the nation remains united and that lawlessness does not spread unchecked.
