Calcutta HC orders FIR against Bratya Basu, JU professor over student assault complaint

The Calcutta High Court has ordered the police to register an FIR against West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu and Jadavpur University professor Om Prakash Mishra based on a complaint by first-year student Indranuj Roy. The complaint, filed via email, alleges attempted murder, assault on a woman, molestation, and criminal intimidation in connection with an incident on campus last Saturday. Despite the complaint, police allegedly did not take action, leading to the matter being brought before the High Court.

During the hearing, Justice Tirthankar Ghosh questioned the state government on why an FIR had not been registered. Following this, he directed that the complaint be treated as an FIR. Advocate Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, representing students, stated, "False claims have been made in the FIR against seven people." He also noted that while no FIR was registered against the students, those who had lodged complaints against them are now facing legal action. The court’s directive has intensified discussions surrounding campus safety and law enforcement’s response to student grievances.

The incident at Jadavpur University comes amid concerns over student security and administrative handling of such cases. The police are now expected to proceed with the investigation based on the High Court’s order. Further developments regarding statements from the accused and additional legal proceedings remain awaited.