Case background
In October 2024, the lifeless body of a six‑year‑old girl was uncovered inside an abandoned warehouse located in the Daladabari area of Jaigaon, Alipurduar. Subsequent investigations identified the child's neighbours as the chief suspects behind what police described as a savage rape followed by murder.
Investigation and arrests
Authorities traced the crime to a pre‑meditated kidnapping, noting that the prime accused had lured the child away using false pretences. Critical evidence came from surveillance footage, forensic analysis and DNA testing. The investigative chain led to the arrest of Bablu Mian first, with Zaidul Islam, Manir Hussain and Majibul Sheikh apprehended shortly thereafter.
During the probe, statements from twenty‑two witnesses were recorded, bolstering the material evidence and confirming the involvement of all four men.
Trial and sentencing
The fast‑track court deliberated for approximately eighteen months before delivering its verdict. Prosecutor Debaranjan Bandyopadhyay had urged the bench to impose the severest punishments permissible under law.
Finding the cumulative evidence compelling, the court sentenced Bablu Mian to death. The three co‑accused—Zaidul Islam, Manir Hussain and Majibul Sheikh—were each handed life imprisonment. The court rejected the prosecution’s claim that the victim’s body had been burned, as the allegation could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
In addition to the custodial sentences, the state government was directed to pay ₹6 lakh as compensation to the victim’s family. The mother of the child expressed that the family had hoped for the harshest possible penalty.
While the judgment concludes the fast‑track court proceedings, the convicted individuals retain the right to challenge the decision before higher courts.
