Tragic Incident of Another Rape in Alipurduar Raises Concerns Over Child Safety

KalimNews, Alipurduar, 03.11.24 : Alipurduar district is grappling with a wave of violence against children, highlighted by two distressing incidents that occurred on Friday. A nine-year-old girl was raped in her neighborhood, while, around the same time, a five-year-old girl was raped and murdered in a separate area.

Authorities swiftly arrested Kajol Mandal, a 34-year-old neighbor, in connection with the assault on the nine-year-old. In a separate part of the district, an angry mob lynched Mona Roy, 40, after he admitted to the crime against the five-year-old girl. These incidents follow another recent case of a minor being raped and murdered in the area just weeks ago.

The recurrence of such violent acts has prompted criticism from BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, who condemned the handling of safety issues by the Mamata Banerjee government. During a visit to the affected community, Adhikari expressed his condolences and called for thorough investigations to ensure justice for the victims. He emphasized the need for effective measures to protect children and ensure justice for the victims.

On Saturday, Suvendu Adhikari, the BJP MLA and leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, visited the village of a five-year-old girl who was tragically killed in a recent assault. Adhikari met with the girl's parents after campaigning for Rahul Lohar, the BJP candidate in the upcoming bypoll for Madarihat on November 13.

During his visit, Adhikari criticized the state government's response, stating, “The government has failed to protect our children, leading to a rise in such horrific crimes. It is essential that the police carry out thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.”

TMC MLA Manoranjan Byapari also raised concerns, questioning whether West Bengal has become a place where such violence is tolerated. He expressed disbelief at the increasing boldness of offenders, especially those targeting children. Byapari echoed concerns on social media, questioning the safety of children in West Bengal. He highlighted the troubling trend of violence against minors, emphasizing the need for urgent action.

Reports indicate that the nine-year-old girl was playing outside when Mandal lured her with chocolates and led her to a nearby forest, where he assaulted her. He reportedly warned her to remain silent about the incident. Her family discovered her injuries during a search, and she bravely recounted her ordeal.

As news of the assault spread, local residents sought to confront Mandal, but police intervened and took him into custody. The girl was taken to a local health center and later transferred to Alipurduar district hospital for treatment.

Superintendent of Police Y. Raghuvamshi confirmed that Mandal had been arrested and that investigations are ongoing. Additionally, an accomplice of the lynched suspect was apprehended later that night.

The community is mourning the loss of the five-year-old girl, with many neighbors expressing their sorrow and concern for child safety in the area.

TMC leader Kunal Ghosh described the incidents as serious societal issues and urged for a united response. “These crimes reflect a broader concern within our community, and we must work together to address the root causes,” he stated.

As the community mourns these tragic events, there is a pressing call for enhanced protective measures for children and a commitment to ensuring justice for victims and their families. Local leaders are emphasizing the importance of collaboration to create a safer environment for all.