Kolkata: A shocking case of gangrape has come to light in West Bengal’s Asansol, where a college student was allegedly assaulted by four men, including her boyfriend, on 13 February. The incident, which occurred under the Hirapur police station jurisdiction, has triggered widespread outrage and political unrest, with BJP leaders staging protests demanding swift action against the accused.
The victim, a resident of the Nursing Dam area in Asansol, had reportedly gone to visit the Bihar Nath Temple in Bankura district with her cousins under the pretext of a family outing. However, her boyfriend and three of his friends were already present at the location. According to the complaint, the group had pre-booked a lodge, where the horrific crime took place.
Delayed Police Action Fuels Anger
The victim’s family filed a complaint at the Asansol Women’s Police Station late on 13 February, alleging gangrape by Rohit Roy, Chandan Yadav, Abhishek Barnwal, and Akash Bind. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the police failed to arrest the accused within 48 hours, allowing them to flee.
The victim, who is in critical condition, was rushed to the ESI Hospital in Durgapur for treatment. Her deteriorating health has added to the family’s anguish, while the delay in police action has only deepened their frustration.
BJP MLAs Stage Protests, Clash with Police
The case has taken a political turn, with BJP MLAs staging protests to demand justice for the victim. BJP legislator Lakhan Gharui arrived at the ESI Hospital to meet the victim but was denied entry. He subsequently staged a demonstration outside the hospital, condemning the police’s inaction.
Meanwhile, BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul led a protest outside the Asansol Police Line, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused. Paul accused the police of being negligent and claimed that officers were unaware of the incident despite it being reported. She also criticised the police for allegedly focusing on extortion rather than addressing serious crimes.
“Every day, rape cases are reported in Bengal, but the police are busy collecting bribes instead of ensuring justice,” Paul said. “If the police cannot act swiftly in such a grave matter, what are they even doing?”
Political Fallout and Public Outcry
The Asansol gangrape case has exposed the lapses in law enforcement and sparked a heated political debate. The BJP has accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of failing to ensure the safety of women in the state. The delay in arresting the accused has further fuelled public anger, with many questioning the efficiency of the police force.
As the protests continue, the victim’s family and the public are demanding accountability and swift justice. The case has also highlighted the need for stricter measures to prevent such crimes and ensure the safety of women in West Bengal.
What Lies Ahead
With the accused still at large and the victim battling for recovery, the pressure on the police and the state government is mounting. The BJP has vowed to continue its protests until the accused are arrested and justice is served.
As the political drama unfolds, the focus remains on the victim and her fight for justice. The case serves as a grim reminder of the challenges faced by women in the state and the urgent need for systemic reforms to address such heinous crimes.
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