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Wary over the fallout of the gang rape of a septuagenarian nun, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday sought to hand over the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Her decision comes days after the CID probe drew a blank. No arrests have been made since the Saturday incident came to light.
The nun was raped by a gang of dacoits at Ranaghat town in Nadia district, some 80 km from Kolkata, early on Saturday. The dacoits also decamped with cash from the convent.
Taking to social media to announce her decision, Mamata claimed the State government will help the central investigation agency in all possible ways.
“Considering the seriousness and sensitivity of the case, I have decided to entrust investigation of the case to the CBI. Our government will provide all necessary cooperation and assistance to the CBI for investigation in this case,” she said.
The CID, after taking over the probe, had issued a cash reward of ₹1 lakh for any information on the eight suspects.
Four suspects have been captured in CCTV footage, while artists’ impressions have been made of the rest.
Justifying bringing in the CBI, State Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim told reporters here that the area is close to the borders. Even the possibility of the perpetrators hiding in other States cannot be ruled out, he added. The limited reach of the State police, in this case, is a hindrance that limits the probe, he pointed out.
Limited reach “The role of the State police is restricted. Hence we are seeking a CBI probe to bring the guilty to the book,” he said.
Cardinal Baselios Cleemis, head of Catholic Bishops’ Conference, who visited Ranaghat to meet the victim, urged the Chief Minister to nab the culprits soon.
Earlier today, the National Human Rights Commission issued a notice to West Bengal government, taking suo motu cognisance of the reports.
The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) too expressed concern on the matter and had yesterday sought a report from the West Bengal government.
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