Jharkhand News: West Bengal Student Blackmailed in Ranchi Hotel, Shocking Incident Unveiled

Ranchi, December 02, 2024: A disturbing case of blackmail involving a minor student from West Bengal has surfaced in Ranchi. The victim, who had traveled to the city to appear for an exam at RKDF University, was reportedly coerced into undressing and photographed in a compromising situation. The incident occurred at a hotel in the Kathal More area on September 16 but was reported to police on November 29.

According to the FIR lodged at the Nagri Police Station, the accused are identified as Subhendu Mandal and Shantanu Mandal from Malda and Abhishek Dutta, Arkaprav Dutta, and Somnath Sharma from Tamil Nadu. The victim’s father claims the men forced their way into the hotel room and carried out the act under the pretense of friendship.

Accusations of Blackmail and Harassment

The father of the victim stated in the complaint that the accused entered their room, introduced themselves to the victim and befriended her. Allegedly, they coerced her into undressing, captured inappropriate photographs and threatened her with the images. The victim reportedly froze in fear until her father returned, prompting the accused to flee.

The men were reportedly staying in Room 104 of the same hotel. The delay in filing the report has raised questions, but sources indicate the victim was traumatized and initially hesitant to disclose the details to her family.

Investigation Underway in Ranchi

Ranchi police have launched a full-scale investigation. Officials are examining hotel records and CCTV footage to verify the sequence of events. The hotel management has been questioned to ascertain if any staff members were complicit or negligent in preventing the incident.

The delay in reporting has posed challenges in gathering immediate evidence, but authorities are working to build a robust case against the accused.

Victim’s Trauma and Family’s Appeal for Justice

The victim’s father described his daughter’s emotional state, stating she was visibly shaken and cried inconsolably after the incident. Days later, she confided in her family, leading to the FIR’s filing. The family has urged swift action against the perpetrators and demanded stricter safety measures in hotels to prevent such incidents in the future.

Legal and Social Repercussions

The case has triggered widespread outrage, with women’s rights organizations calling for stringent action against the accused. Advocates are pushing for enhanced safety protocols in public accommodations, especially those hosting minors and women.

The accused face charges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the investigation will likely set a precedent for addressing similar crimes in the region.