The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has alleged that former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and party leader Abhishek Banerjee were prevented from visiting the family of a 12-year-old girl who was allegedly raped and murdered in Baruipur, near Kolkata.
The allegations come as police continue their investigation into the case, which has triggered widespread public outrage across West Bengal.
TMC Claims Heavy Police Deployment Restricted Movement
According to the TMC, heavy police deployment, barricades and route marches were carried out outside the residences of Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee before their planned visit to the victim’s family.
TMC leader Derek O’Brien shared videos on social media, describing the security arrangements as “alarming.” He questioned why central forces were allegedly being used to restrict the movement of elected leaders.
The party claimed the deployment effectively prevented the two leaders from reaching Baruipur. Authorities have not publicly confirmed these allegations.
Police Investigation Continues
Meanwhile, police said two people have been arrested and three others detained for questioning in connection with the alleged rape and murder.
Officials also confirmed that:
- A six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed.
- Four FIRs have been registered.
- One FIR relates to the alleged rape and murder.
- Another concerns the reported lynching of a man suspected of involvement in the case.
- Police teams are conducting raids to identify and apprehend additional suspects.
Investigators said they are also awaiting the post-mortem report, which is expected to provide further details.
Prohibitory Orders Imposed in Baruipur
Authorities have imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in parts of Baruipur and nearby areas.
Additional police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order following protests by local residents demanding swift justice.
Body Recovered a Day After Girl Went Missing
According to police, the 12-year-old girl went missing on Saturday. Her body was recovered from a pond the following day.
The girl’s family has alleged that she was raped and murdered. Following the incident, residents staged demonstrations, including road and railway blockades, demanding strict action against those responsible.
Family Seeks Strict Punishment
The victim’s father said he spoke with opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari, who assured him that those responsible would be arrested and face legal action.
The father said he demanded the harshest possible punishment for the accused and has been asked to visit the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters at Bhabani Bhawan on Tuesday.
