South Calcutta Law College in Kolkata has indefinitely suspended all classes following a shocking incident in which a 24-year-old female law student was allegedly gang-raped on campus. The survivor, a first-year BA LLB student, has identified three accused: Monojit Mishra, a contractual staffer and alumnus; and two students, Zaib Ahmed and Pramit Mukherjee. According to the complaint, the accused lured her into the union room, the guard’s room, and a washroom, where the alleged assault occurred. Witnesses claim that the woman was seen pleading for help but was forcibly held and assaulted for several hours.
Suspension of Classes and Campus Closure
In response to mounting public outrage and protests, the college governing body issued an official notice stating that all BA LLB (Honours and General) and LLM classes are suspended indefinitely. The entire college premises have been closed to students until further notice.
Evidence and Police Action
The police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and sealed several parts of the campus, including the union room and guard’s room. CCTV footage reportedly shows the victim being dragged onto campus by the accused in the presence of security personnel. A medical examination conducted soon after the incident confirmed multiple injuries including bite marks, bruises, scratch marks, and evidence of forceful penetration. The medical reports and CCTV footage are being used to corroborate the survivor’s statements.
Arrests and Disciplinary Measures
Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. Monojit Mishra, Zaib Ahmed, Pramit Mukherjee, and a college security guard were taken into custody. The security guard was reportedly present during the incident and did not intervene or report it. The college has terminated the services of Monojit Mishra, who had been hired just 45 days before the incident. Both Zaib Ahmed and Pramit Mukherjee have been expelled. The college has also issued a show-cause notice to the private security agency responsible for campus safety and has written to the Bar Council of India requesting the cancellation of Mishra’s license to practice law.
Public Outcry and Legal Developments
The incident has sparked widespread outrage across the city. Student unions, civil rights groups, and concerned citizens have staged protests at the college and other locations demanding justice and institutional accountability. Petitions have been filed in the Calcutta High Court and the Supreme Court seeking judicial monitoring of the investigation. Many have also questioned the college administration’s decision to hire a staff member without proper background checks.
Broader Significance
This tragic incident has highlighted serious gaps in campus security and administrative oversight. It has also reignited debates around the safety of women in educational institutions, especially those located in urban centers like Kolkata. The indefinite closure of South Calcutta Law College serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for institutional reforms to protect students and ensure justice for survivors.
