Kolkata, 13 July (H.S.): A nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed by the Deputy Commissioner (South West Division) to investigate the alleged rape of a female student at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta’s Joka campus. The probe is being conducted under the supervision of an officer of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) rank.

The accused, identified as Parmanand Jain, has been remanded to police custody until July 19. Police sources said that he has been uncooperative during interrogation. His family members have been summoned to appear before Haridevpur police station for questioning.

In a parallel move, Haridevpur police have formally written to IIM Calcutta authorities seeking detailed information regarding the campus’s security arrangements and protocols, especially in relation to hostel access and visitor management.

IIM Calcutta has issued a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for students, faculty, and staff. The SOP includes a controversial clause stating that police officers are not permitted to enter any room on campus without prior permission from security personnel. If any Investigating Officer attempts forced entry, students have been instructed to inform the student council immediately.

The West Bengal State Women’s Commission has taken suo motu cognizance of the case and asked the police to submit a report within 15 days. Commission Chairperson Leena Ganguly confirmed that panel members have spoken to the victim's family over the phone to offer support. She also stated that the Commission is considering a personal visit to the victim and her family, subject to their comfort and consent.

The police have seized a bill from a pizza delivery company in connection with the incident and recorded the delivery person’s statement.

Moreover, the police have moved court to record the victim's confidential statement and conduct her medical examination.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey