Two Sentenced to 20 Years for Gang Rape in Matigara

MP, 26 Dec 2025, Siliguri: In a significant verdict that brought relief to the victim and her family, the Siliguri court has convicted two individuals, Alay Roy and Bishal Mahanta, to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for their involvement in the gang rape of a college student in June 2023. The court also imposed a fine of ₹50,000 on each convict, with the amount to be paid as compensation to the victim. In the event of non-payment, an additional year of imprisonment will be added. The sentence was delivered on December 22, 2025, after a prolonged investigation and legal proceedings.

The horrific incident occurred on June 7, 2023, when the victim, a young college student, was returning home from her tuition classes at about 6.30 to 7 pm. As she took a shortcut through Tut Bagan a deserted area near Khaprail More in Matigara, she was ambushed by the two accused, who were her acquaintances. They forcibly dragged her into the nearby jungle and committed the gang rape. The victim, traumatised and terrified, managed to return home with torn clothes and informed her family, who immediately filed a complaint at the Matigara police station.

Upon receiving the complaint, the police acted swiftly, with Sub-Inspector Subarna Rauth leading a thorough investigation. Within a short time, the police arrested the two accused, both residents of Simultala, Matigara. The investigation was meticulous, with 11 witnesses providing testimony in court over the course of two years. Following a rigorous trial, the court found the two men guilty.

The case highlighted the efficient work of the local police and judicial system. The police were commended for quickly submitting the charge sheet and for their diligence throughout the investigation. Lawyer Piyushkanti Saha, who represented the victim, expressed satisfaction over the swift judgment, stating, “The case was expedited, and the charge sheet was submitted promptly. The swift response from the police and the court has brought justice to the victim.”

The court’s decision to sentence the accused to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and to impose the fine was met with relief by the victim’s family, who were present in the courtroom. "Finally, justice has been served. We are grateful to the court," said a member of the victim’s family, who broke down in tears after the judgment.

The convicts, Alay Roy and Bishal Mahanta, both college students and friends, were immediately taken into custody after the verdict.