In a landmark development, a man has been convicted in West Bengal in connection with a rape case stemming from the 2021 post-election violence. This is reportedly the first conviction in the numerous cases registered in the aftermath of the assembly elections that year. The accused was found guilty of raping a minor, marking a significant, if grim, milestone in the legal proceedings related to the post-poll unrest.
The 2021 West Bengal Legislative Assembly election saw the Trinamool Congress (TMC) win a third consecutive term, but was immediately followed by widespread violence across the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleged that its workers were targeted by TMC supporters, with reports of murders, rapes, arson, and looting. Allegations of police inaction and bias were rife, leading to the Calcutta High Court ordering a CBI investigation into the most serious offenses, including murder and rape.
The CBI's involvement revealed the extent of the alleged crimes, with the agency investigating 39 cases of alleged rape or attempted rape. However, in many instances, the CBI reported that they were unable to gather enough evidence. This information was part of a report submitted to the Calcutta High Court, highlighting the challenges in prosecuting these cases.
The High Court had taken suo moto cognizance of the matter after allegations were raised regarding the failure of the state police in registering FIRs. A five-judge bench directed the CBI to investigate incidents of murder, rape, and attempt to rape. The court also ordered the state government to provide compensation to the victims. The investigation was to be monitored by the High Court.
The Supreme Court has also intervened in cases related to the post-poll violence. In May 2025, the Supreme Court overturned the Calcutta High Court's order to grant bail to five individuals accused of rioting and attempting to rape a woman. The court expressed serious concerns about the accused's connections to the ruling TMC party and the potential impact on a fair trial. The Supreme Court directed the trial court to expedite proceedings and conclude the trial within six months.
The conviction in the rape case is therefore a notable development, offering a glimmer of justice to victims of the post-poll violence. However, it also underscores the challenges and complexities involved in prosecuting these cases, as well as the long road to reconciliation for the affected communities. It remains to be seen whether this conviction will pave the way for more successful prosecutions and bring closure to the victims of the 2021 post-poll violence in West Bengal.
