Villagers in an eastern state of India took drastic action by setting a local police camp on fire following the alleged rape and murder of a nine-year-old girl. The incident unfolded just hours after the girl’s family from West Bengal reported to the police that she had not returned home after attending tuition classes on Friday evening.
According to the news agency Press Trust of India, the girl’s body was discovered in a nearby pond in Joynagar, South 24 Parganas district, in the early hours of Saturday. Her father recounted that she had visited his shop after classes but never made it home, leading to a frantic search that tragically ended with the discovery of her body about a kilometer away.
Villagers have pointed fingers at the police, alleging that the girl was sexually assaulted and murdered while accusing the authorities of a delayed response to their initial complaint. This harrowing incident comes amidst heightened tensions following the recent rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at a hospital in Kolkata, which sparked nationwide protests for justice and safety for healthcare workers.
When police arrived in the village to recover the girl’s body, they faced a hostile crowd that vandalised a police outpost and set it ablaze. The mob, comprising more than 200 enraged individuals, also confronted the police with weapons such as lathis, brooms, and kitchen utensils. The aggression escalated to the extent that tear gas shells had to be used to restore order.
Authorities, however, refute claims of negligence, stating that one suspect has been apprehended in connection with the case and that efforts are underway to maintain peace in the area. Despite this, protests demanding women’s safety have continued across West Bengal during the Durga Puja festival.
Criticism has been directed towards the state government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, with opposition parties lambasting the perceived lack of safety and prompt action. Amidst these challenges, the community remains on edge, demanding justice for the victims and measures to ensure the wellbeing of all residents.