Kolkata Gang Rape Case: Accused Men Had History Of Harassing Students, Say Police

Kolkata Gang Rape Case: Accused Men Had History of Harassing Students, Say Police

ReportBuzz Crime Desk
Kolkata | July 1, 2025

In a disturbing update to the Kolkata gang rape case that shocked the city earlier this week, police officials have revealed that the three accused men had a known history of sexually harassing female students in the area.

The three suspects — all in their mid-20s — were arrested on Saturday, less than 24 hours after a 19-year-old college student filed a complaint alleging that she was assaulted and gang-raped near a deserted lane in the Park Circus area.

Past Complaints, No Formal FIRs

According to officers from the Kolkata Police Women’s Cell, multiple informal complaints had been made against the trio over the past year. Most were verbal warnings issued after girls from nearby coaching centres and colleges complained of being stalked, followed, or catcalled.

“We received a few general diary (GD) entries against these men, mostly about verbal harassment and following women. Unfortunately, none of the previous incidents escalated to an FIR, which limited legal action,” said a senior officer requesting anonymity.

Police are now reviewing CCTV footage and speaking with previous complainants to determine if earlier warnings could have prevented the current case.

What Happened

The survivor, a first-year student, had reportedly gone to meet a friend when she was approached by the three men, who were allegedly drunk at the time. She was dragged into an abandoned structure near a construction site and assaulted.

She later managed to contact a friend, who helped her file a complaint at the Beniapukur Police Station.

The police arrested the accused within hours, and they are currently in judicial custody. Medical tests have confirmed sexual assault.

Public Outrage & Protests

Since the news broke, students and women’s rights groups have staged small protests outside police stations and college campuses, demanding stricter action and swifter justice.

“This could have been avoided if earlier complaints were taken seriously. We want colleges to be safer, especially at night,” said Aditi Sen, a student activist at a candlelight protest near Park Street.

What’s Next

Police say they are now preparing a chargesheet and gathering witness statements. The case is expected to be fast-tracked under the West Bengal Women’s Safety Act, recently amended to expedite sexual assault trials.

Meanwhile, city authorities have pledged to improve lighting and patrols in known trouble spots.

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