Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and the main accused in the gangrape of a student inside South Calcutta Law College, Manojit Mishra, a former student of the institution, was recently employed there as a temporary staff, said police. Investigations reveal that Manojit had joined the college as a temporary staff member merely 45 days ago, reportedly on the recommendation of the college’s Governing Body (GB).
The college’s Vice Principal, Nayana Chatterjee, confirmed Manojit’s appointment saying, “He was appointed as a temporary staffer through a GB resolution. We have informed the GB president and are in communication with the police.”
The case has taken a political turn as images of Manojit with prominent TMC leaders have surfaced. Manojit is said to have served as the TMCP unit president during his student years, raising questions about political patronage and the hiring process within the college.
The incident has raised serious questions about the college’s internal security and administration. The Vice Principal admitted that she was unaware of the incident until she saw it reported in the media, a revelation that has sparked further scrutiny. “College hours end at 4 pm, and no one is allowed on the premises after that. I’ve previously raised concerns about alumni and students lingering on campus beyond permitted hours,” she said, adding, “Strict action will be taken. No one will be spared.”
Also read: TMC leader among 3 arrested in Kolkata law student gangrape case
Meanwhile, Calcutta University has taken note of the incident and sought a detailed written report from the college principal. While the university does not have a representative on the college's governing body, the report must specify what actions the college took following the alleged incident. The letter is to be routed through the Dean of the Law Faculty.
A fact-finding committee, comprising legal and academic experts, is expected to be formed by Tuesday to investigate the matter. The committee’s report will be submitted to the Chancellor. Calcutta University’s interim Vice Chancellor, Shanta Dutta, strongly condemned the incident, stating, “This is a heinous crime. There is clearly an effort to suppress it. Political support to unruly elements is emboldening such actions in educational institutions. This must end.”
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