South Calcutta Law College resumes classes under heavy security presence, 11 days post Kolkata rape outrage
by Utsav Roy
Eleven days following the reported gang rape of a first-year student, South Calcutta Law College reopened its gates on Monday under strict security measures. The institution had shut down on June 29 amid public outrage over the incident, which allegedly occurred on June 25 and involved two senior students, a former student working casually at the college, and a security guard, all believed to be associated with the TMC’s student wing.
The college allowed only BA LLB first-semester students onto campus, specifically for the purpose of submitting examination forms. Senior officials from Kolkata Police were stationed on-site to oversee operations, while private guards were seen conducting stringent ID checks at entry points. Around 100 students, many escorted by concerned parents, entered the premises. The administration instructed that no student would be allowed to stay on campus beyond 2 PM. Staff members, both teaching and non-teaching, were directed to remain until every student had safely exited.
As part of the ongoing investigation, police sealed both the students’ union room and the security guard’s quarters, which now remain inaccessible. Regular academic activities are scheduled to resume on July 8, in accordance with the standard timetable. Governing body member Haripada Banik stated the institution is committed to restoring order and ensuring student welfare.
Despite these assurances, apprehensions linger among guardians. Sasanka Dhara, whose son is a first-semester student, shared his intent to accompany his child to campus until the atmosphere stabilises. Another parent expressed skepticism about trusting the college’s safety measures, citing the failure of both administration and security personnel.
Criticism has also intensified against the TMC-affiliated student body. One guardian alleged that party leaders must have been aware of the activities occurring within the students’ union space, accusing them of shielding the accused under political influence.