Civic volunteer allegedly rapes woman, flees; Kin claims delay in police action

A housewife from Habibpur, Malda, has accused a civic volunteer of raping her after he allegedly forced his way into her home during the festival of Kali Puja. The incident is reported to have taken place on the night of October 21, around 9 PM, when the victim was alone at her residence. According to her statement, the accused forcibly entered the home and assaulted her. She further detailed that her screams attracted the attention of neighbors and her parents, who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. However, the accused fled the premises before anyone could apprehend him.

The following day, October 22, the victim proceeded to the Habibpur police station to file a formal complaint. She claims that upon arrival, she was subjected to a prolonged wait before her complaint was officially registered. The police eventually took her statement, but she asserts that no immediate action has been taken against the accused civic volunteer. This lack of response has prompted significant concern regarding the effectiveness of police procedures in handling such serious allegations of sexual assault.

In response to the perceived inaction by local law enforcement, the victim sought assistance from the Malda District Superintendent of Police on October 23. During her visit, she conveyed her frustrations regarding the slow response from the Habibpur police and emphasized the need for urgent action to ensure her safety and the safety of others in the community. The Superintendent of Police has since assured her that the incident will be investigated thoroughly and that necessary steps will be taken to address the situation.

As a result of the allegations, a case has been officially registered at the Habibpur police station for rape and assault against one individual, with additional allegations of assault involving two other unnamed individuals. The police are expected to conduct a comprehensive investigation, which may include collecting forensic evidence, interviewing witnesses, and gathering statements from the victim and her family.