“Irshad Wasn’t a Thief, Attackers Demanded 10 Thousand Rupees,” Says Wife of Kolkata Mob Lynching Victim

A 37-year-old man named Irshad Alam was lynched by a mob in Kolkata’s Bowbazar area on suspicion of mobile theft. The event occurred at a hostel where Irshad was accused of stealing a mobile phone and subsequently beaten by a group of 14 people.

Irshad, who worked at an electric shop in Chandni Chowk, was allegedly taken to the hostel on Friday morning while on his way to work. He was brutally beaten with heavy bats or sticks. Despite the initial arrival of the police, the hostel door remained closed, forcing the officers to break it open and rescue Irshad.

“He was rushed to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital in critical condition, but despite many attempts, they doctors could not save him,” said Zakir Hussain, Irshad’s colleague.

A doctor at Calcutta Medical College reported that Irshad had multiple injuries when he was brought in. “We tried everything to save him, but he could not be saved. He died within two to three hours of being brought to the hospital,” the doctor said.

His family said that he was accused of stealing mobile phones and was tied up and beaten by people. A relative said, “He had called us from the hostel and said that the students were demanding money by accusing him of theft.”

Salma, Irshad’s wife, expressed disbelief and grief over the incident. “We live in the slum but he wasn’t a thief. He was quiet and calm. He went to work early in the morning as usual,” she said.

Irshad’s family and neighbours are now demanding strict punishment for the accused.

During the assault, Irshad managed to call his shop owner, informing him about the attack and the demand for 10 thousand rupees. The shop owner rushed to the scene, and Irshad was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Following the incident, the police recovered six cricket bats and a stick from the hostel. A Kolkata Police official stated that several people have been detained for questioning, and 14 hostel residents have been arrested. The investigation is ongoing to ensure justice for Irshad.

Police said they filed a case under IPC sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 365 (kidnapping) and 302 (murder) at the Muchipara police station.