Sandeshkhali unrest: K’taka BJP Mahila Morcha seeks SC's intervention
Bengaluru, Feb 24 (IANS) The President of BJP’s Mahila Morcha in Karnataka, C. Manjula, has approached the Supreme Court seeking protection for women victims of alleged harassment by local Trinamool Congress leaders in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal. Manjula, a former Chairman of the Karnataka State Commission for Women, highlighted the failure of law and order in the state, urging judicial intervention.
Speaking to the media, Manjula expressed concerns over the lack of action by Bengal authorities, including the Chief Minister and police, to address the safety of women in the state. She emphasized the need for the judiciary to step in, given that the Centre cannot intervene in state matters. Manjula also called for a CBI probe into the incidents in Sandeshkhali.
According to Manjula, women in Sandeshkhali have faced harassment by Trinamool leader Sheik Shahajahan’s associates, leading to protests by local residents. She criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly protecting the perpetrators and failing to address the issue. Manjula pointed out the lack of response from Banerjee, despite the ongoing incidents in the village.
In response to the situation, Manjula announced plans for a walkathon across Karnataka on March 5, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s women’s rally in West Bengal on March 6. The walkathon, organized by Karnataka Mahila Morcha, aims to show solidarity with women and raise awareness on women’s safety issues. Manjula stated that the event will cover all district headquarters in the state, involving participants from 312 mandals and 232 revenue talukas.