Mamata Banerjee News: Another Bengal BJP leader has now come under the scanner for fixing Bengal CM "Mamata Banerjee's rate". BJP MLA from Bankura district's Onda Amarnath Sakha has sparked a row with his comments on Mamata Banerjee's "rate". In a video shared by the Trinamool Congress, Amarnath Sakha can be heard saying: "We are fixing Mamata Banerjee's rate. Her rate is Rs 25 lakh. Catch hold of a molla and get out of the state. We shall pay you Rs 25 lakh."
The BJP leader's comment came amid a raging controversy over the state government's role in providing security to women in Bengal. Amarnath Sakha's comments was in response to the state government's announcement of compensation for the family of the doctor who was raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The BJP has also alleged Mamata Banerjee government trying to derail the investigation in the RG Kar MCH case. Bengal Governor had also said that the Bengal government had failed its women.
Reacting to Sakha's tweet, TMC said the MLA's comments clearly reflected the "deep-seated, rampant sexism" within the BJP. "Those who lack the decency to refer to the only female CM in India with respect have no right to lecture others on Nari Suraksha," TMC said in an X post. The TMC also pointed out that a few months ago former judge of the Calcutta High Court and now a BJP leader, Abhijit Gangopadhyay, had also made a similar comment. "Abhijit Gangopadhyay, who joined the BJP before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, had allegedly said: "Trinamool says Rekha Patra [the BJP's Sandeshkhali candidate] was bought for Rs 2000. So, Mamata Banerjee, what is your price, Rs 10 lakh?"
Earlier this week, Amarnath Sakha targeted the TMC and Bengal Police over the RG Kar doctor's rape and murder case. He said: "There is no one in the Trinamool Congress except the police. Trinamool Congress is carrying out anti-social activities with the police's support. So, I want to tell the police that they need to stay within their limits. Be vigilant and keep even the way to your toilet clear." This is being seen as a veiled call to oppose the police and block their way.