Baguiati house looting: Bedridden man found dead, jewellery missing in north Kolkata
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The body of Balaram Rajbangshi (31), a bedridden young man, was recovered from his family home in Baguiati's Raghunathpur area in north Kolkata on Sunday, 20 September 2026, after the residence was apparently looted. Police are investigating whether Rajbangshi was murdered during the alleged robbery, as injury marks were found on his body.
What Investigators Found at the Scene
When Balaram's mother returned home from her job as a domestic worker on Sunday afternoon, she discovered her son's body inside the house. The scene pointed to a ransacking — the cupboard was left open, clothes were strewn across the floor, and empty jewellery boxes lay on the bed.
Notably, the house had been locked from outside, and the family's pet dog was found confined to a separate room. Neighbours told police they had not heard any noise or commotion during the morning hours, adding a layer of mystery to the incident.
The Victim and His Family
Balaram had reportedly been ill for several years and was bedridden at the time of the incident. On the morning in question, he was alone at home — his mother had left for work, his father had gone to sell fish at a local market, and his elder brother was also away. The family filed a report at Baguiati Police Station, which has registered the case and launched a formal investigation.
Police Response and Investigation
Investigators have begun questioning family members and local residents. CCTV footage from the area is also being examined to trace any suspects. Police are further looking into whether the cupboard was forcibly broken open or unlocked by someone with prior knowledge of the house. According to reports, the key question before investigators is whether the looting and Balaram's death are directly connected or coincidental.
What Happens Next
A post-mortem examination is expected to clarify the cause and approximate time of death, which could be crucial in establishing a timeline. The outcome of forensic analysis and CCTV review will likely determine whether this is treated as a murder case or investigated under a broader framework. The incident has unsettled residents of the Baguiati locality, who are calling for swift police action.