In Howrah district, West Bengal, the alleged abduction of a 17-year-old Class 11 student amid pressure for a forced marriage has raised serious social and administrative concerns. The girl’s family has accused the local police of failing to take concrete action despite their complaint.
According to the family, the girl was abducted by two youths, Raja and Dakua, who allegedly tried to force her into marriage. The girl’s mother, Gulshan Begum, stated that repeated threats and pressure were exerted on the family after they refused the proposal.
Begum said, “The boy and his uncle were saying that if we do not agree to the marriage, they would take our daughter by force.” The family rejected the proposal as the girl is only 17 and wishes to continue her studies.
Since the incident, there has been no contact with the girl. Gulshan Begum added, “We filed an FIR with the police on January 22, but even after two days, no substantial action has been taken.”
She also alleged that the accused and their associates have been threatening the family to withdraw the FIR. Begum lamented, “We are poor and are running from place to place, while the administration remains silent.”
The FIR was registered at Jagacha Police Station under Sections 137(20) and 140(3) of the Indian Penal Code for kidnapping and abduction. A police inspector stated that so far, neither the girl nor the boy has been located. Authorities are reportedly attempting to track the boy’s mobile phone, which is currently switched off.
