West Bengal post-poll violence: First conviction announced
A major update from the 2021 West Bengal election violence—Rafikul Islam, a retired school teacher from Malda, has been convicted for raping a nine-year-old girl in a mango orchard.
The crime happened during the post-poll unrest and was witnessed by the victim's 10-year-old cousin.
The Calcutta High Court had asked the CBI to step in and investigate several cases of murder and sexual violence linked to the elections.
First conviction out of CBI-investigated post-poll cases
On July 2, 2025, a special court found Islam guilty under strict child protection laws—making this the first conviction out of the CBI-investigated post-poll cases.
Prosecutors credited strong testimonies from both minors for helping secure justice quickly.
The CBI had set up special teams to fast-track these sensitive trials.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 4, marking an important moment for victims seeking closure after years of waiting.