In the wake of mass molestation of Hindu women by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan, Rekha Sharma, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), in an exclusive interview with Organiser Sub-Editor Yatharth Sikka, delves into the Sandeshkhali incident and shared first hand experiences from her recent visit. Excerpts:
You recently visited Sandeshkhali. Can you share your observations.
Upon my arrival, I sought to meet the women victims, yet their fear of facing the media hindered their willingness to come forward. Resorting to visiting their homes individually, I discovered they were hesitant to speak without their Ghunghat. Eventually, when they opened up, their narratives echoed similar experiences. Their ordeal started with land seizure attempts by local strongman Sheikh Shahjahan and his accomplices. Upon resistance from the families, male members faced violence while women were coerced to attend late-night gatherings at the TMC party office, where they endured molestation, stripping, and rape. Despite enduring such atrocities, many hesitated to file complaints due to fear. One elderly woman broke into tears while recounting the rape of her daughter, who was subsequently forced to leave the place. Concerns loomed over their future as they sought justice through formal complaints.
During your meeting with the West Bengal DGP, what were the main concerns discussed and what recommendations did you propose to address them?
The victims were hesitant to file their complaints due to the attitude of the police. It is not the first time I have raised this concern. The prevailing sentiment in Bengal is that political pressures often influence the police. During my recent visit to a police station, I managed to register nine FIRs, including one for rape and eight for molestation. Notably, it marked the first instance in nine years where a West Bengal DGP engaged in dialogue with me. Regrettably, our discussion was abruptly halted when he received a call from the State Government. Nonetheless, during our brief discussion, he acknowledged the shortcomings of the police force. Also, I advised him to personally visit the site, which he did the following day. I specifically called for the arrest of Sheikh Shahjahan, as his apprehension is crucial for any meaningful change. In response, the DGP expressed reluctance, stating that there were no complaints against Shahjahan and questioned why hasn’t ED taken action
against him?
Were there any specific demands or appeals made by the victims or local community members during your visit?
The primary demands voiced by the victims and community members were clear cut. They called for the immediate arrest of Sheikh Shahjahan, compensation for the victims, assurances of security and the restoration of their land rights.
How do you assess the response of law enforcement agencies in Sandeshkhali? Do you think that there is a need for Central agencies’ intervention?
So far, the authorities seem to be targeting the relatives of the victims rather than apprehending the actual perpetrators, which is a concerning trend in the State. It’s imperative that action must be taken against the criminals and not those who are bravely speaking out against them. I have called for Mamata Banerjee’s resignation and proposed President’s rule. She should visit the affected areas and listen to the plight of the common people without political bias. Unfortunately, her approach seems tainted by political favouritism, lacking empathy for those who oppose the State Government.
What steps does the NCW plan to take moving forward to address the broader issues highlighted by the Sandeshkhali incident?
I have engaged in discussions with the Honourable Governor and together, we are strategising to offer educational and skill development opportunities to the victims. Additionally, the Governor has established safe houses for women who have faced atrocities. However, we recognise that these measures are not permanent solutions, and therefore, we are committed to consistently advocating with the police for further action.
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