A minor schoolgirl was allegedly raped while she was on her way to tuition in Jhargram, West Bengal, on August 23. The accused, identified as Rupkumar Das, has been arrested and is currently in judicial custody.
The incident triggered protests in the area on Sunday, with local residents blocking the Jhargram-Bankura State Highway 5, demanding exemplary punishment for the accused.
Girl taken to forest area
According to the complaint, a local toto driver allegedly picked up the schoolgirl to take her to tuition but instead took her towards a forested area. The accused allegedly assaulted the girl there and threatened to kill her if she disclosed the incident.
Fearing the threat, the girl reportedly stopped attending school and did not initially tell her family about the alleged assault.
After she remained absent from school for two days, her family questioned her and learnt about the incident.
Accused arrested after family complaint
The girl’s family lodged a written complaint at Belpahari Police Station on August 25. Police launched an investigation and arrested Rupkumar Das later that night.
Following the arrest, the accused was produced before the court and is currently in jail.
Residents demand speedy trial
On Sunday, residents staged a road blockade at Ethala More, burning tyres and holding placards to demand the accused’s exemplary punishment. Protesters also allegedly vandalised the accused’s house.
The protesters demanded that merely arresting the accused would not be enough. They called for a speedy investigation, early submission of the chargesheet and completion of the trial at the earliest.
Police assure speedy investigation
Jhargram Superintendent of Police Manav Singla said the accused had been arrested after the complaint was received and that the investigation was underway.
He said police were maintaining regular contact with the minor’s family and were taking steps to complete the investigation and submit the chargesheet quickly so that the trial could begin in accordance with the law.
