RG Kar victim’s mother leading in Bengal polls

Ratna Debnath, mother of the RG Kar case victim, has entered electoral politics and is contesting the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections from Panihati as a candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Her entry comes after the tragic rape and murder of her daughter in 2024, who was a doctor at RG Kar Medical College.

According to the ongoing vote counting in the state, she is leading her rivals and set for a victory.

Before the incident, Debnath led a private life as a homemaker in North 24 Parganas. However, following the tragedy, she emerged as a prominent voice demanding justice and accountability. As per reports, her political campaign is centred on issues such as women’s safety, institutional responsibility, and the need for stronger action against crimes.

On the campaign trail, Debnath has described electoral contest as a “fight for justice” rather than a routine political battle. She has been highlighting concerns related to alleged negligence and lapses in handling her daughter’s case.

The Panihati constituency is considered politically significant and has historically witnessed close contests. In the 2021 Assembly elections, the seat was won by the Trinamool Congress.

This marks Debnath’s first direct participation in politics. In her affidavit, she has declared assets of about ₹12.45 lakh, mainly her house and savings, saying her strength is her real-life experience. Her campaign gained attention after a rally with Narendra Modi, where she spoke about a “fearless Bengal.”