Fourth Arrest Made in Kolkata Law Student Gang Rape Case
Police in Kolkata arrested a college security guard in connection with the gang rape of a first-year law student, bringing the total number of arrests to four. The crime allegedly occurred on campus on June 25. The main accused, a criminal lawyer and alumnus, along with two current students, were arrested earlier. Police suspect the attack was an act of vengeance after the victim rejected a marriage proposal from the prime accused. The guard was arrested for failing to perform his duty.
Unpacked:
The main accused are Monojit Mishra, a 31-year-old former student and Trinamool Congress student leader, and two current students, Zaib Ahmed and Pramit Mukherjee. Mishra is also an alumnus and former staff member of the college, while the two others are enrolled students.
The security guard, Pinaki Banerjee, was present during the assault but left his post on the accused’s instructions, failed to intervene or call for help, and did not report the incident to authorities, leading police to arrest him for negligence of duty.
The survivor’s medical examination corroborated her claims, with officials confirming injuries consistent with sexual assault, including evidence of forceful penetration, bite marks, and nail scratches on her body.
Students have staged protests demanding justice and stronger safety measures. The college administration and police have been under scrutiny for campus security failures, prompting calls for stricter oversight and improved protection for students.