CPI(M) Polit Bureau member Brinda Karat has expressed her deep condolences in the shocking and sudden death of Suzette Jordan, the victim in the 2012 Park Street rape case. It will sadden all those committed to the struggle against violence against women, Karat said. Suzette died of meningo-encephalitis at a Kolkata hospital on March 13. "Suzette, a victim of sexual assault herself, fought her battle for justice with courage and dignity. Her decision to reveal her own identity rejecting the 'Park Street victim' tag, with the words 'why should I hide my identity? I am not the criminal, I am fighting and I will fight (for justice)' resonates strongly today when victims continue to be blamed for what happened to them," Karat said in her condolence message. "The West Bengal government and the Chief Minister had caused Suzette further trauma by the callous statement that her complaint was 'manufactured' to defame the state government. Mamata Bannerjee refused to apologise even after the police investigation subsequently substantiated Suzette's charge of rape. With her death, it is incumbent on the West Bengal government to ensure that the accused are punished. The struggle to get justice for Suzette must continue," she said and demanded that "the government should also take appropriate measures to support and help Suzette's school-going children as she was the only breadwinner in the family".