Kolkata Gangrape Suspects Lingered at Crime Scene, Consumed Alcohol, Police Say

Kolkata: In a shocking revelation, Kolkata Police have disclosed that Monojit Mishra, the primary suspect in the alleged gangrape of a student at South Calcutta Law College, along with his accomplices, remained at the crime scene for hours after the assault, consuming alcohol in the college’s guard room. The incident, which occurred on June 25, has sparked widespread outrage and intensified scrutiny of campus safety.

According to a police officer cited by PTI, the three accused Monojit Mishra, Pramit Mukherjee, and Zaib Ahmed spent considerable time drinking in the guard room after the crime. They also allegedly instructed the security guard, Pinaki Banerjee, to remain silent about the incident. Banerjee has since been arrested for failing to report the crime and for allegedly aiding the accused. The trio later dined at a roadside eatery on EM Bypass before returning to their homes the following morning, police said.

The investigation, led by a nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), has uncovered evidence suggesting the assault was premeditated. CCTV footage and mobile tower data have been pivotal in tracing the suspects’ movements. On June 26, Mishra reportedly contacted an “influential” individual in South Kolkata’s Deshapriya Park, seeking assistance. This person, who had previously helped Mishra, declined to intervene after assessing the situation’s gravity, according to police. Mishra also reached out to other “mentors” in areas including Rashbehari, Gariahat, Fern Road, Ballygunge Station Road, and near Karaya police station, in an apparent attempt to evade consequences.

The SIT’s probe has revealed that Mishra, a former student and current contractual staff member at the college, has a history of criminal behavior. Police reports indicate he faces at least 11 prior cases, including four related to molestation, highlighting a pattern of misconduct. The college has faced criticism for hiring Mishra without proper screening, raising questions about oversight and accountability.

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The case has triggered protests across Kolkata, with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of protecting Mishra due to his past affiliation with the TMC’s student wing. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognizance of the case, demanding a thorough and time-bound investigation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. A BJP inquiry committee, comprising Satpal Singh, Meenakshi Lekhi, Biplab Deb, and Manan Mishra, has been formed to visit the crime scene and submit a report.

Kolkata Police have seized critical evidence, including the hockey stick allegedly used to injure the victim, Mishra’s clothing, and videos sent for forensic analysis. The investigation continues as authorities work to ensure justice for the 24-year-old victim.