BJP supporter claims village chief raped her inside TMC office
What's the story
A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) woman supporter has alleged that she was raped at a Trinamool Congress (TMC) office in West Midnapore district by a village chief and his aide.
In response, both accused have filed counter-complaints against her.
According to the woman's complaint, she had gone to the TMC-run panchayat to submit an undertaking that she was quitting the BJP on Sunday when Lakshmi Sheet, the chief of Narayanganj village, and his aide allegedly raped her.
Case progress
Police investigation initiated
After the complaint by the woman and the counter-complaint by Sheet, police have started an investigation.
TMC district president Sujay Hazra said their party does not tolerate disrespect toward women.
He added that if there is any evidence supporting the woman's claims, TMC will take stringent action against Sheet while allowing law enforcement to proceed legally.
Allegations
BJP accuses police of negligence
Sheet has denied the allegation, calling it "politically motivated" and asserting that he was being framed by the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Reacting to the alleged incident, BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul said TMC offices have become "centers of rape."
She also announced a protest outside the West Midnapore District Magistrate's office after local examinations conclude.