Molestation case: HC asks SP to file report on cops’ role

Expressing displeasure over the progress in the probe in a case of alleged molestation of a TMC student leader and her mother by goons, the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday directed the SP of North 24 Parganas district to file a report on the role of the inspector in-charge and investigating officer.

Hearing a petition by the girl alleging police inaction, Justice Dipankar Dutta directed the SP to file the report on the role of the two officers of Madhyamgram police station in North 24 Parganas district by Tuesday, when the matter would be taken up for hearing again. Justice Dutta expressed surprise at the police failing to record the girl’s statement before a judicial magistrate under section 164 of CrPC.

Jayanta Narayan Chatterjee, counsel for the girl, submitted that a statement before a magistrate was mandatory if an accused is charged under section 354(B) (assault on woman with intention to outrage her modesty) of IPC, which is the case herein.

The judge also voiced displeasure over lack of proper security to the girl and her mother and on the progress in the investigation despite the incident having taken place on May four this year.