Poonawalla Criticizes Congress Over Silence on Women's Abuse Cases

BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla criticizes Congress and Rahul Gandhi for their silence on atrocities against women in states ruled by the Congress or other INDIA bloc parties. He cites incidents in Howrah, Telangana, and the Sandeshkhali case, with Delhi Police charging AAP aide Bibhav Kumar in the Swati Maliwal assault case.

BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla on Friday criticized Congress and its leader Rahul Gandhi for remaining "silent" on atrocities against women in Congress-ruled or other INDIA bloc parties-ruled states. Poonawalla pointed to the Congress Party's silence on the Sandeshkhali incident and the Swati Maliwal assault case. He highlighted their continued silence on abuses in Howrah and Telangana while speaking to reporters.

Poonawalla further commented on the Supreme Court's recent order for women's empowerment, criticizing Rahul Gandhi for not welcoming the judgment. "Just holding the Constitution will not do anything. You should also agree to what's written in it," he said. He highlighted the case where Bibhav Kumar, an aide of Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was accused of physically assaulting AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday submitted a charge sheet against Bibhav Kumar to the Tis Hazari Court in Delhi, invoking Sections 308, 354, 354 B, 506, 509, and 341 of the IPC, along with the addition of Section 201. Additionally, allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault are central to the Sandeshkhali incident in TMC-ruled West Bengal, prompting a CBI probe following the Supreme Court's rejection of the West Bengal government's plea against the Calcutta High Court order.

BJP leader Subhas Sarkar criticized the West Bengal government for seeking to protect individuals involved in mafia activities and corruption by approaching the Supreme Court. Sarkar remarked that the Supreme Court's decision favors the public and victims and accused the West Bengal government of utilizing resources to shield offenders. He spoke to ANI on Friday addressing these issues.

Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan of the Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta HC's decision, allowing the CBI probe, and commented on the West Bengal police's inaction over months. The high court order pertains to interconnected incidents, ensuring a comprehensive investigation. Responding on behalf of West Bengal, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi contended that substantial efforts had already been made in the case. Nonetheless, the apex court clarified its observations would not impact the trial or future remedies related to the case.

(With inputs from agencies.)