Police forms 9-member SIT to probe alleged IIM Calcutta rape case; Commission for Women seeks report in 15 days

In a significant development, the West Bengal police on Sunday formed a nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to thoroughly probe the alleged rape of a woman inside a hostel of the prestigious Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM-C). The SIT, constituted by the Deputy Commissioner of the South West Division and supervised by an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) rank officer, underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating this grave allegation that has shaken the city and raised questions about campus security.

The West Bengal Commission for Women has also taken suo motu cognisance of the case, demanding a detailed report from the police within 15 days. "We have also contacted the family of the woman, and if they are comfortable, then we will speak to them and the woman. We have sought time from them," stated Leena Gangopadhyay, chairperson of the Commission, highlighting the multi-pronged approach being taken to address the matter.

Police had already arrested Parmanand Toppaunwar, a second-year student of IIM Calcutta and a resident of Karnataka, in connection with the alleged incident. He has been charged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including rape. His clothes and phone have been seized for forensic examination as part of the ongoing investigation, and he has been remanded to police custody until July 19.

The woman, reportedly a psychologist, filed a complaint alleging that Toppaunwar called her to the campus on Friday under the pretext of counselling. She claims that he then spiked her food and water, causing her to become unconscious, and subsequently raped her. This serious accusation has led to immediate and stringent action by law enforcement.

Police sources indicate that they have collected crucial CCTV footage from the traffic department, confirming the woman's entry into the campus. Further, the police have requested the IIM-C management to provide all CCTV footage, from the main gate to the hostel, to meticulously track the accused's movements within the premises and gather more evidence. This comprehensive review of surveillance is vital for the investigation.