CPI(ML) Frontal Organizations Press for CBI Inquiry into Jehanabad Student's Death in Patna
In a significant development, two frontal organizations of the CPI(ML) — the All India Progressive Women's Association (AIPWA) and the All India Students' Association (AISA) — have strongly demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged sexual assault and tragic death of a girl student from Jehanabad. The victim had been residing in a private girls' hostel in Patna while preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
Dissatisfaction with Police Investigation
Expressing deep dissatisfaction with the progress of the police investigation, leaders from both organizations emphasized that a CBI inquiry is essential to ensure justice. This demand aligns with the persistent calls from the victim's family, who have lost faith in the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe currently underway.
AIPWA general secretary Meena Tiwari addressed reporters on Tuesday, stating, "The family of the victim is not satisfied with the SIT probe and has been demanding a CBI inquiry. If the government's intention is clear, it should not have any hesitation in recommending a CBI inquiry."
Announcement of Protest Marches and 'Beti Bachao Nyay Yatra'
To amplify their demand, AIPWA and AISA have announced a series of protest marches aimed at pressuring authorities for a CBI probe. In a coordinated effort, they revealed plans for a weeklong "Beti Bachao Nyay Yatra" scheduled from February 4 to February 10. This yatra is designed to seek justice for the victim and support the family's call for a thorough CBI investigation.
The protest initiative was announced by Meena Tiwari alongside AISA senior functionaries Priti Kumari and Kumar Divyam, as well as Divya Gautam. They outlined that the yatra will commence from Makhdumpur in Jehanabad district and conclude with a march to the state assembly on February 11.
Upcoming Public Hearing and Broader Implications
Ahead of the yatra, a public hearing on the case is set to be organized on February 3. This event aims to gather community input and highlight the urgency of the situation, potentially drawing wider public attention to issues of safety and justice for students in hostels.
The case has sparked concerns over the security measures in private hostels, particularly for students from rural areas like Jehanabad who relocate to urban centers like Patna for competitive exam preparations. The demand for a CBI probe underscores a broader call for accountability and transparency in handling such sensitive cases, which often involve vulnerable populations.
As the protest marches and yatra unfold, they are expected to mobilize support from various civil society groups and student bodies, putting additional pressure on state authorities to act swiftly. The outcome of this movement could set a precedent for how similar cases are investigated in the future, emphasizing the need for independent probes to uphold justice and public trust.
