Protests erupt in South 24 Parganas district after the incident; police launch search for suspects linked to the case
BARUIPUR — The death of a 12-year-old Muslim girl in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas District has sparked outrage and demands for swift justice, with police investigating allegations that the minor was abducted, sexually assaulted and murdered.
The incident took place in the Baruipur area, where the girl reportedly left her home on Saturday evening to meet a friend but did not return. Concerned family members later approached the police and reported her missing.
According to the victim’s relatives, her body was subsequently recovered from a pond. The family has alleged that the girl was forcibly taken away by a group of men, subjected to sexual assault and then killed before dumping her body in the water.
News of the incident triggered anger among local residents, who gathered to demand justice for the victim.
Protesters staged demonstrations with the girl’s body, causing traffic disruptions in the area for several hours.
Senior police officials, including officers from the Presidency Range, visited the scene and held discussions with demonstrators in an effort to calm tensions.
The protests ended after assurances were given that a thorough investigation would be carried out.
Police said one suspect has been arrested in connection with the case.
Investigators are continuing efforts to trace and apprehend other individuals allegedly involved.
Authorities have not yet released full details of the evidence collected so far, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Police have urged the public not to spread unverified information while the inquiry is underway.
The incident also led to reports of retaliatory violence.
According to local accounts, an individual identified as Indrajit Tanti was allegedly beaten to death by an angry crowd that believed he was associated with the suspects.
Police are also examining the circumstances surrounding that death.
Officials have appealed for calm and stressed that all allegations should be addressed through the legal process.
The case has generated political reactions in the state.
The family has demanded the strongest possible action against those responsible.
Political leaders have also called for a speedy investigation and strict punishment if the allegations are proven in court.
Reports indicate that Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari spoke with the victim’s father and assured him that efforts would be made to ensure justice.
The death of the young girl has left residents shocked and grieving.
Community members, activists and local leaders have called for a transparent investigation and fast-track legal proceedings.
Many residents said the focus should remain on securing justice for the victim and supporting her family during a difficult time.
The allegations in the case are yet to be tested in court, and the accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty through due process.
As the investigation continues, authorities face growing pressure to identify all those involved and ensure accountability under the law.
