In a significant development, the Calcutta High Court on Monday revoked the anticipatory bail previously granted to Rajganj Block Development Officer (BDO) Prasanta Barman. He is a key suspect in the kidnapping and murder of a gold trader from Odisha in Salt Lake. The court has directed Barman to surrender before the authorities within a strict 72-hour deadline.
Court Questions Lower Court's Bail Decision
The bench of Justice Tirthankar Ghosh set aside the bail order issued by an Additional District Judge in Barasat. During earlier hearings, Justice Ghosh had raised serious questions about the lower court's rationale. He noted that the anticipatory bail was granted based primarily on the public prosecutor's submissions, even though the detailed case diary was available for scrutiny at the time.
The Bidhannagar City Police had challenged the bail in the High Court, arguing against the relief given to the administrative officer. The victim, identified as Swapan Kamila from Balasore, Odisha, was reported missing from the Duttabad area on October 28. His body was discovered the following day, on October 29, near a canal in the Jatragachhi area of New Town.
Police Investigation and Barman's Whereabouts
Investigators have already arrested two individuals described as close associates of Prasanta Barman in connection with the crime. They face charges related to the kidnapping and murder of Kamila.
On the day the High Court delivered its order, Barman was reportedly present at his office. He also attended an administrative meeting for Jalpaiguri district virtually. The court's ruling now puts his immediate freedom in jeopardy.
Implications and Next Steps
A senior officer from the Bidhannagar City Police stated that they would take necessary action after thoroughly examining the copy of the High Court order. Another officer clarified the precarious position Barman now finds himself in, indicating that if the order does not specify a 72-hour protective window, the BDO could be arrested immediately.
The High Court's intervention underscores the gravity of the case and marks a crucial turn in the ongoing investigation into the gold trader's murder. All eyes are now on the next 72 hours to see if the accused officer complies with the surrender directive.
