Case background
In October 2024, the lifeless body of a six‑year‑old girl was uncovered inside an abandoned warehouse in the Daladabari area of Jaigaon, Alipurduar. Investigators quickly identified the child’s neighbours as the chief suspects behind what was described as a vicious rape followed by murder.
Investigation and arrests
The police determined that the crime was a pre‑meditated kidnapping, noting that the principal accused had lured the girl away with false promises. Critical evidence—including CCTV footage, forensic reports and DNA matches—formed the backbone of the case. Consequently, Bablu Mian was apprehended first, with Zaidul Islam, Manir Hussain and Majibul Sheikh arrested shortly thereafter.
During the inquiry, statements from twenty‑two witnesses were recorded, bolstering the physical evidence and confirming the involvement of all four men.
Trial proceedings
The fast‑track court examined the matter for approximately eighteen months. Prosecutor Debaranjan Bandyopadhyay urged the bench to impose the severest punishments permissible under law.
Verdict and sentencing
Finding the cumulative evidence against the quartet compelling, the judges 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 remains had been burned, deeming the allegation insufficiently proven.
“We had prayed for the harshest punishment,” the victim’s mother said, expressing both relief at the verdict and lingering grief.
Beyond incarceration, the state government was directed to pay a compensation sum of ₹6 lakh to the bereaved family.
Next steps
While the fast‑track court’s judgment marks the conclusion of the trial at that level, the convicted men retain the right to challenge the decision before higher courts.
