Kolkata — A recent rape incident at a reputed law college in Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, has triggered serious outrage and widespread debate across both social and political circles. Following a complaint by a female student, police have arrested three individuals, including a former student of the college. The involvement of individuals allegedly linked to the ruling Trinamool Congress’ student wing, the Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), has intensified public anger.
One of the accused, Manojit Mishra, has previously been associated with TMCP. His photos with various Trinamool leaders have surfaced on social media, further politicizing the matter. Opposition parties have strongly condemned the incident, demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, citing moral responsibility.
TMCP Responds as Allegations Trigger Political Turmoil
Meanwhile, TMCP has officially clarified that Manojit Mishra has not been actively involved with the organization for several years. It was revealed that he was working as a temporary staff member at the college. The party has denounced the incident and emphasized the need for strict legal action against those found guilty.
According to the student’s complaint, the incident occurred on the evening of June 25 in the college’s guard room. Police reports state that the student was lured to the campus with the promise of being appointed as the student union president. However, once on campus, she was allegedly raped. She filed a written complaint at the city police station, which led to the registration of an FIR and the launch of a formal investigation.
Arrests Made, National Women’s Commission Demands Action
The three arrested individuals — Pramit Mukherjee, J. Ahmed, and Manojit Mishra — were presented in a local court, which remanded them to police custody for four days. According to police, forensic evidence is being collected from the crime scene, and the mobile phones of the accused have been seized for further investigation.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also taken note of the incident. Commission Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Kolkata Police Commissioner, requesting a detailed action report within three days. She has called for a thorough and impartial investigation and urged authorities to provide full support to the survivor.
This incident has brought back disturbing memories of the 2024 rape and murder case at R.G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, which had earlier sparked debates about safety within academic institutions. Once again, that debate has resurfaced with renewed urgency.
Police sources confirmed that two of the accused were arrested on Wednesday evening. Based on information gathered during interrogation, the third accused was arrested later that night. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities extracting more information from the suspects.
Although preliminary suspicions suggest that the other two accused may also be affiliated with TMCP, police have stated that no official confirmation has been made yet.
This case has reignited concerns over the safety of women in educational institutions in Bengal. As political tensions escalate, the issue is expected to remain at the center of public and political discourse in the coming days.
