Who is the first convict sentenced to life for the 2021 Bengal post-poll violence?
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Synopsis
In a landmark ruling, Rafikul Islam, known as Bhelu, has become the first convict sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in the 2021 post-poll violence in West Bengal. This case, investigated by the CBI, highlights the severe consequences of the unrest following the state assembly elections, emphasizing the importance of justice for victims of such atrocities.
Key Takeaways
- Rafikul Islam sentenced to life imprisonment.
- First convict in 2021 post-poll violence cases.
- Victim was a nine-year-old girl.
- Case investigated by the CBI.
- 22 witnesses testified during the trial.
Kolkata, July 4 (NationPress) A special court in the Malda district of West Bengal has sentenced Rafikul Islam, also known as Bhelu, to life imprisonment, marking him as the first convict in the series of 2021 post-poll violence cases investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
On Wednesday, a special court found him guilty of heinous charges related to the rape of a minor girl, who was only nine years old, in Manikchak, Malda.
Bhelu, a retired teacher from a state-run school in West Bengal, stands as the first individual convicted among numerous cases stemming from the 2021 post-election unrest.
He faced charges under various sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act, 2012, and on Friday, the court decreed a life sentence, as stated by CBI counsel Amitabha Moitra.
“The trial recorded statements from 22 witnesses, culminating in the life sentence for the accused,” Moitra added.
Bhelu was found guilty under Section 6 of the Pocso Act and Section 376AB of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for committing rape against a minor.
The CBI’s investigation unveiled that the crime took place on the evening of June 4, 2021, while the girl was playing in Bhelu’s mango orchard.
He allegedly lured the minor with money, and both the victim and eyewitnesses provided compelling testimony about the incident to the special Pocso court.
The convict specifically targeted the victim because her family was known to be active supporters of the BJP in the Manikchak area. Numerous instances of post-poll violence were reported across various regions of West Bengal following the announcement of the 2021 Assembly election results in May.
The investigation was handed over to the CBI following an order from the Calcutta High Court.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the significance of this ruling in the context of ongoing violence in West Bengal. The sentencing of Rafikul Islam serves as a crucial step towards justice for victims of post-election violence, reaffirming the need for accountability in a politically charged atmosphere. The CBI's involvement underscores the seriousness of these cases and the commitment to uphold the rule of law.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Rafikul Islam convicted of?
Rafikul Islam, known as Bhelu, was convicted of raping a nine-year-old girl and sentenced to life imprisonment.
Why did the CBI investigate the case?
The CBI took over the investigation following an order from the Calcutta High Court, due to the serious nature of the post-poll violence.
How many witnesses testified during the trial?
A total of 22 witnesses provided their statements during the trial.
What sections of the law was Bhelu charged under?
Bhelu was charged under the Pocso Act and the Indian Penal Code for committing rape against a minor.
What context surrounded this case?
This case is part of a larger series of incidents of violence reported in West Bengal following the 2021 Assembly elections.
