Suvendu Adhikari visited Baruipur on Tuesday and met the family of the 12-year-old girl whose alleged rape and murder has triggered widespread outrage and protests across West Bengal.
After meeting the victim’s parents at the office of the Superintendent of Police (SP), Adhikari assured the family that those responsible for the crime would be brought to justice. He also said that any lapses in the investigation should be dealt with firmly.
Alleges Political Role Behind Violence
Speaking to the media, Adhikari alleged that the violence and public unrest following the incident had been instigated by “fundamentalist and anti-national elements.”
He further claimed that individuals who had recently lost elections were involved in provoking the disturbances.
According to Adhikari, police have identified around 200 people in connection with the violence, and legal action would be taken against those found responsible.
Calls for Action in Lynching Case
Adhikari also referred to the death of a man who was lynched by a mob after being suspected of involvement in the crime.
Citing preliminary findings of the police investigation, he claimed that the deceased appeared to have been innocent and said those responsible for the lynching should also face legal action.
“Justice will be ensured in this case as well. No one involved in the lynching of the innocent youth will be spared,” Adhikari said.
He further alleged that political actors had played a role in inciting the unrest and claimed investigators were examining several call recordings as part of the ongoing probe.
Seeks Accountability for Police Response
Adhikari said those responsible for vandalism and damage to public property during the protests should be identified and prosecuted according to law.
He also called for accountability over allegations of police negligence in handling the case and urged that any officers found responsible for lapses face strict action.
Additionally, he demanded stronger security measures in the area, including the establishment of a permanent police outpost near the victim’s residence.
Investigation Continues
The investigation into the alleged rape and murder, as well as the subsequent mob violence, remains ongoing.
Police have arrested multiple suspects in connection with the case and said further action will be based on forensic evidence, witness statements and other material collected during the investigation.
