Minor girl allegedly raped, found dead in Bengal; Violent protests erupt

Tensions are running high in South 24 Parganas after the tragic recovery of a fourth-grade student’s body. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with protests erupting in response to allegations that the girl raped was murdered. The case has raised serious concerns about the safety of children in the area, especially since the tragedy occurred near a police camp.

The young girl had gone for her usual tuition session, but her family began searching for her when she failed to return home. Despite their efforts, the family could not find her. After alerting the police, a search was launched, and the student’s body was eventually discovered just 500 meters from her home, submerged in a body of water. Locals reported that her body bore injury marks, further fueling suspicions of foul play.

As word of the incident spread, residents of the area grew increasingly angry, especially since the Mahishmari police camp, located nearby under the jurisdiction of Joynagar police station, is supposed to ensure the safety of the neighborhood. The camp was established due to the area's high crime rate, and police patrol the region day and night. Yet, despite the camp’s presence, locals are questioning how such a heinous crime could occur.

On Saturday morning, frustration reached a boiling point as a large group of residents, including women, took to the streets. Armed with sticks, they marched towards the Mahishmari police camp, demanding answers and justice. In their anger, some of the protesters vandalized the police camp, expressing their dissatisfaction with the local law enforcement's inability to prevent the incident. Women, in particular, were at the forefront of the protest, showcasing the community's collective outrage.

The local police, who were informed of the girl's disappearance, have since arrested a suspect in connection with the case. The suspect has been interrogated multiple times, though no official details regarding the progress of the investigation have been released. The police are continuing their efforts to piece together what happened, but residents remain skeptical and frustrated with the slow pace of justice.