Progress in the Investigation of Alleged Gang-Rape of Law Student in Kolkata

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the alleged gang-rape of a 24-year-old law student in Kolkata has made significant strides in gathering crucial evidence. The case, which has garnered widespread attention, involves serious allegations against multiple suspects, including a former president of the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad union. As the investigation unfolds, the evidence collected thus far paints a troubling picture of the events that transpired.

Key Evidence Seized

On Sunday, police confirmed the recovery of a hockey stick, reportedly belonging to the prime suspect, which is alleged to have been used during the assault. This stick was found at the suspect’s residence in Kalighat. In addition to the hockey stick, law enforcement officials seized a red kurta, light brown six-pocket trousers, and black shorts belonging to the main suspect. Clothing items belonging to two other suspects were also recovered from their homes in Tiljala and Howrah, further solidifying the case against them.

Forensic Evidence and Survivor’s Account

Forensic teams have been instrumental in the investigation, retrieving hair strands from the guard room floor where the alleged crime took place. Investigators believe these strands are indicative of the survivor’s struggle during the assault. In her harrowing account, the survivor stated, "I just lay like a dead body," highlighting the trauma she endured. Additionally, police have obtained DNA samples from all three suspects, which will be crucial in corroborating the survivor’s claims.

Damning Video Evidence

One of the most alarming pieces of evidence comes from the prime suspect’s phone. Co-defendants Zaib Ahmed and Pramit Mukherjee, both law students, allegedly recorded the assault under the direction of the main suspect, ensuring that the survivor’s face was visible in the footage. This video evidence has been sent to a cyber forensics lab in Salt Lake, Kolkata, for validation. It is expected to contradict the main suspect’s claims of "consensual sex" and his assertion that the survivor assaulted him after rejecting his "pornographic marriage proposal."

CCTV Footage Corroborates Victim’s Story

CCTV footage from the night of the incident, captured between 7:30 PM and 10:50 PM, corroborates the victim’s account. The footage shows her attempting to flee to the main campus gate but being forcibly dragged back into the guard room. Notably, the color of the main suspect’s kurta matches the one seized from his residence, further linking him to the crime. Investigators have identified 25 students who were on campus that day, with seven present in the union room just ten minutes before the incident. Police have reached out to the law college authorities to obtain contact information for these students, which could provide additional insights into the case.

Broader Implications of Suspect’s Phone

The investigation has revealed disturbing content on the main suspect’s phone, including manipulated photographs of female students with their faces edited onto pornographic images. These images were reportedly circulated in WhatsApp groups, raising serious concerns about the culture of harassment and objectification within the student community.

Ongoing Investigation

The nine-member SIT, led by an assistant commissioner, has been actively pursuing leads in the case. On Sunday, the team conducted a search at Pramit Mukherjee’s home in Howrah, looking for further videos and evidence. Despite protests from neighbors, the SIT remained on-site for two hours, indicating the seriousness of their inquiry. The findings from this search have yet to be disclosed.

A relative of the survivor’s family has expressed satisfaction with the progress of the investigation and hopes for a speedy trial. As the SIT continues its work, the case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for justice and accountability in incidents of sexual violence.

Conclusion

The ongoing investigation into the alleged gang-rape of a law student in Kolkata highlights the complexities and challenges faced by law enforcement in such sensitive cases. With significant evidence being gathered, including physical, forensic, and digital evidence, the hope is that justice will be served swiftly and effectively. The community watches closely, as the outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for campus safety and the treatment of sexual violence in society.