Opposition questions police encounter in Baruipur rape and murder case, while the BJP says the action reflects its commitment to ensuring justice and public safety.
July 8, 2026: A fresh political controversy erupted in West Bengal after the police encounter of Prabhas Mondal, the main accused in the Baruipur rape and murder case. TMC MP Mahua Moitra strongly criticised the state government, calling the incident “jungle law” and alleging that the administration was following a model similar to Uttar Pradesh. Police claimed Mondal attempted to escape after snatching a firearm from an officer during a crime scene reconstruction exercise, prompting retaliatory action.
Several TMC leaders also questioned the encounter. MP Kirti Azad alleged that the incident was staged to prevent the accused from revealing sensitive information, while senior leader Saugata Roy condemned the killing and demanded a thorough investigation. He argued that the accused should have been produced before a court instead of being killed during police custody.
The BJP defended the police action, saying no criminal or rapist would be spared under the current administration. State BJP chief Shamik Bhattacharya said the government had fulfilled its promise of ensuring public safety, while Kamduni movement activist Mousumi Kayal welcomed the encounter, calling it the “beginning of Asur Vadh” and stating that strict action against rapists would deter future crimes.