Jhargram student rape sparks protests, accused auto driver in cop net
Times of India | 31 August 2026
Jhargram: The alleged rape of a Class 7 student in Jhargram’s Belpahari on Aug 23 triggered protests on Sunday, with tribal organisations blocking the Shilda-Bankura State Highway 5 at Aethala junction with placards and burning tyres.
The blockade began around 10 am, with the crowd swelling through the day. Police later intervened and held discussions with the protesters, following which the road was cleared around 4 pm. Demonstrators, however, warned of a larger movement if swift action was not taken against the accused.
According to the complaint, local auto-rickshaw driver Rupkumar Das took the student to a forest area in his vehicle, where he allegedly raped and physically assaulted her. The victim’s family lodged a written complaint at Belpahari Police Station the following day. Police arrested Das on the night of Aug 24, and he remains in judicial custody.
Jhargram SP Manav Singla said, “A complaint was lodged, and the accused was arrested. The investigation is ongoing. We are in regular contact with the minor’s family. Procedures are being followed to ensure a fast-track trial by submitting the charge sheet promptly.”
One of the protesters, Sarag Hembram, said, “I am a cultural secretary of a tribal organisation, but today I am here as a villager. Residents from neighbouring villages blocked the road at Aethala junction and I arrived after hearing the news. The administration must take this seriously so that the safety of our mothers and sisters is not compromised. Officials need to address the student’s safety and health concerns while ensuring punishment for the guilty without delay. Police assured us they will appeal for a fast-tracked trial. If we do not see progress within a few days, a larger movement will be initiated.”