Hooghly neighbor arrested for allegedly abusing 16-year-old girl

In Hooghly, West Bengal, a 16-year-old girl has reported sexual abuse by a neighbor, leading to his arrest by local authorities. The incident occurred in the Talandu area and was formally reported to the police by the victim's family. In response to the complaint, the Magra police acted swiftly, arresting the accused late Saturday night. This case adds to a growing number of reports concerning violence against women in various districts of West Bengal, including Murshidabad and Alipurduar, raising alarms about community safety.

The police have charged the accused under section 64(2)(1) and section 4(1) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. After the arrest, law enforcement confirmed that the accused would be brought before Chuchura court for legal proceedings. In accordance with legal protocols, the police are also facilitating the victim’s medical examination to collect evidence and provide necessary healthcare, including psychological support, as part of their investigation.

Local political leaders have reacted to the incident, with Monoranjan Bapari, the Trinamool Congress MLA from Balagarh, publicly advocating for stringent punishment for the accused. He highlighted the importance of swift and decisive action against those who commit such crimes, reflecting the community's demand for justice and accountability. In his statement, Bapari reiterated the necessity for the government and law enforcement agencies to strengthen measures to ensure the safety of women and children in the region, especially in light of recent events.

In response to the allegations, members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organized a protest on GT Road at Talandu Adda More. Protesters called for immediate justice for the victim and demanded that authorities take firmer action against perpetrators of sexual violence. The protest included various community members who expressed their concerns over the rising incidents of violence against women and girls in the area. The BJP leaders emphasized the need for comprehensive measures, including public awareness campaigns and community engagement, to address the root causes of such violence.