5 including minor sent to 3 days police custody for raping school girl in Jalpaiguri

A minor school student was allegedly gang-raped in the Meteli police station area of Jalpaiguri district. The incident occurred in a tea garden setting after the girl had finished school for the day. According to local reports, the student had gone to meet a male friend to celebrate his birthday behind the school premises. The situation turned violent when a group of individuals interrupted the pair, physically assaulted the male friend, and forcibly separated him from the girl.

Following the assault on her companion, four young men and a teenager allegedly took turns raping the minor. The victim’s mother filed a formal written complaint with the Meteli police station late Monday night, prompting an immediate investigation. Acting swiftly on the report, law enforcement officials conducted raids throughout the night and successfully apprehended all five suspects involved in the crime.

On Tuesday, the four adult suspects were produced before the Malbazar District Additional Court, while the minor suspect was sent to the Jalpaiguri Juvenile Court. The judicial authorities have granted the police three days of custody to further their investigation. The police have officially registered the case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Section 70 of the Indian Penal Code, which specifically pertains to gang rape.

The incident has sparked significant political and social tension in the region. Jalpaiguri Additional Superintendent of Police (Grameen) Uttam Ghosh confirmed that the investigation is ongoing to determine if any other individuals were involved. Meanwhile, Sukanta Majumdar criticized the state’s security situation, stating that the recurring nature of such crimes in tea garden areas proves a complete breakdown of law and order and a lack of fear among criminals.