Kolkata, India
A 24-year-old first-year law student was allegedly gang-raped inside the South Calcutta Law College premises on the night of June 25, triggering widespread outrage and political tensions in West Bengal. The incident has once again spotlighted rising concerns over campus safety and women’s security.
What Happened?
As reported by India Today, the survivor was allegedly lured to the union room of the college by a former senior who had previously proposed marriage. Once there, she was overpowered and assaulted by three individuals.
The accused have been identified as:
- Monojit Mishra (31) – Former student and alleged Trinamool Congress student wing (TMCP) functionary.
- Zeb Ahmed (19) – Current student.
- Prome Prit Mukhopadhyay (20) – Current student.
All three were arrested within 12 hours of the complaint being filed.
Police Action and Investigation
According to LiveMint, the police acted promptly following the survivor's complaint. The three accused were arrested, their mobile phones seized, and the union room was sealed for forensic examination.
A medical examination confirmed forceful penetration, bite marks, and scratch injuries, supporting the survivor’s testimony. She also recorded her statement before a magistrate, clearly identifying all three attackers.
Political Fallout
The incident quickly turned political. The BJP accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of shielding the accused, citing Monojit’s alleged TMCP links. Economic Times reported that BJP leaders even called for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s resignation.
Responding to the criticism, TMC Minister Shashi Panja stated that the police acted with urgency and impartiality. She affirmed that the victim’s complaint was taken seriously and the law would take its full course.
“The girl has named the accused, and police arrested all three within 12 hours,” she told India TV News.
Deeper Concerns
The crime has drawn comparisons to the 2024 R.G. Kar Medical College rape and murder case, which had also rocked the city and led to massive protests. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken cognizance of the current case and has sought a full report from the state government.
The incident raises renewed questions about campus safety, political accountability, and justice for survivors of sexual violence.
Conclusion
While the swift arrests reflect urgency, the political overtones and emotional weight of this case have sparked a broader conversation about how institutions handle such incidents. Public attention remains fixed on whether justice will be delivered without bias.
