CM Rejects Lynching Label, Provides Job to Victim's Family
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has dismissed claims that the death of a man in the violence that erupted in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas district, following the rape and murder of a minor girl was a lynching. She announced a government job for the deceased's kin.
The violence broke out after the body of a 16-year-old girl, stuffed in a sack, was found in a pond in Baruipur on July 9, 2026. Protests led to clashes, resulting in the death of a 35-year-old man, identified as Ratan Mondal, and injuries to several others.
Allegations of Radical Elements Behind Violence
Speaking to reporters on July 11, Banerjee said, "I do not accept the term 'lynching' for this incident. It was a case of mob violence, but not lynching. We have given a job to the victim's family as a compassionate appointment." She alleged that "radical communal forces" or those rejected in recent elections could have instigated the violence.
The Chief Minister added, "We are investigating all angles. Those who lost in the polls might try to create unrest. Strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty." According to police, at least 12 people have been arrested in connection with the violence.
Opposition Demands Judicial Probe
Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari of the Bharatiya Janata Party criticized the government's response, demanding a judicial inquiry into the incident. "The CM is trying to downplay a lynching. This is a clear case of mob killing. We demand a CBI investigation," Adhikari said.
The girl's autopsy confirmed rape and murder, with injuries consistent with strangulation. The case has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.
