Following accusations from the BJP that she threatened doctors protesting the rape and murder of a trainee at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly refuted the claims, calling them part of a "malicious disinformation campaign."

In a statement posted on X, Banerjee clarified, "I have not made any threats against medical students or their movements. I fully support their genuine protest and have never threatened them. These allegations are entirely false."

Banerjee criticized the BJP for attempting to destabilize the state and undermine democracy with alleged support from the central government. She contended that the BJP's actions are aimed at creating chaos and lawlessness in West Bengal.

At a Trinamool Congress students' wing event, Banerjee had previously urged protesting doctors to gradually return to work, expressing understanding of their frustration but warning against legal actions that could ruin their careers. She emphasized her government's humanistic approach and desire to foster more medical professionals.

The controversy intensified after BJP leader Sudhanshu Trivedi accused Banerjee of using wordplay to threaten doctors. Trivedi claimed that the Chief Minister's remarks about not filing FIRs against the doctors were an indirect threat.

The Chief Minister also responded to criticisms regarding her use of the phrase "phonsh kora" during her speech. She explained that the phrase, quoted from mystic Ramakrishna Paramhansa, was meant to encourage protest against criminal offenses and was not intended to incite violence.

In addition, Banerjee questioned the Central Bureau of Investigation's progress in the case, criticizing the lack of developments 16 days after it took over the investigation from the Kolkata Police.

The protesting doctors have maintained their stance, with services at RG Kar Medical College continuing as usual despite the ongoing demonstrations.