Why is Former Rajganj BDO Prashant Barman Missing from the Charge Sheet in the Bengal Gold Merchant Murder?
Synopsis
The ongoing investigation into the murder of gold merchant Swapan Kamilya raises serious concerns as former Rajganj BDO Prashant Barman, named as a key suspect, is missing from the charge sheet. This exclusion has sparked outrage among the victim's family and intensified scrutiny of the police's actions.
Key Takeaways
Swapan Kamilya was murdered, raising serious investigative questions.
The former Rajganj BDO , Prashant Barman , is a key suspect but is missing from the charge sheet.
Concerns are mounting over police efficacy in handling this high-profile case.
The victim's family demands justice and accountability.
The investigation is ongoing, with police efforts to locate Barman.
Kolkata, Feb 5 (NationPress) Concerns have surfaced regarding the police's investigation into the murder of gold trader Swapan Kamilya. This scrutiny arises from the absence of Prashant Barman, the former Rajganj BDO and purported main perpetrator, from the charge sheet presented to the Bidhannagar court.
Kamilya was reportedly kidnapped on October 28 of the previous year, with his body discovered the next day on a canal bank in Jatragachi, under the jurisdiction of the New Town police station.
The charge sheet, submitted after a 90-day investigation, identifies five individuals as suspects: Tufan Thapa, Raju Dhali, Sajal Sarkar, Gobinda Sarkar, and Vivekananda Sarkar, but notably omits Barman. Authorities indicated that his name might be incorporated into a future supplementary or separate charge sheet.
The victim’s relatives have accused Barman, who has been dismissed from his BDO role, of being the primary architect of the crime and have expressed their frustration over the police’s inability to detain him.
Previously, Barman secured anticipatory bail from the Barasat and Bidhannagar sub-divisional courts, but this was rescinded by the Calcutta High Court on December 22, mandating his surrender within 72 hours. Barman failed to comply, chose to go underground, and subsequently, an arrest warrant was issued.
On January 19, the Supreme Court also commanded him to surrender by January 23; however, he remains at large. In the meantime, a new BDO has been appointed in Rajganj.
The omission of Barman’s name from the charge sheet has fueled speculation, even as the police persist in their efforts to locate him.
Point of View
We remain committed to reporting on issues of public interest with integrity and accuracy. The absence of a key suspect from the charge sheet in a high-profile murder case raises serious concerns about the efficacy of the police investigation. We will continue to follow this case closely to ensure accountability and transparency.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Prashant Barman?
Prashant Barman is the former BDO of Rajganj and is alleged to be the main suspect in the murder of gold merchant Swapan Kamilya.
What happened to Swapan Kamilya?
Swapan Kamilya was reportedly kidnapped on October 28, and his body was found on October 29 in Jatragachi.
Why was Barman's name excluded from the charge sheet?
Investigators have stated that Barman's name may be included in a supplementary charge sheet in the future.
What actions have been taken against Barman?
Barman had received anticipatory bail, which was revoked by the Calcutta High Court, and he has since gone into hiding.
What is the public reaction to this case?
The victim's family and the public have expressed outrage over the police's handling of the investigation and the exclusion of Barman from the charge sheet.
