Chopra Case: Victims and Survivors Silenced

Trigger Warning: This article contains references to violence and suicide. Please avoid reading if you feel distressed by these subjects.

Historical Context: The Chopra case is a recent example of mob violence and extrajudicial punishment in India, a country with a long history of communal and political violence. The incident occurred in the context of ongoing political tensions and social issues in West Bengal, a state that has witnessed significant political violence, especially during elections. The case also highlights the broader issue of mob justice in India, which has been a persistent problem despite legislative efforts to curb it.

Incident Overview: Rubina (name changed) was assaulted in a kangaroo court in Chopra block, Uttar Dinajpur district, West Bengal, allegedly by local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Tajmul Islam, also known as JCB. A viral video showed Rubina and a man, Rafiq (name changed), being beaten in a market, accused of having an extramarital relationship. The crowd watched but did not intervene.

Related Incident: In Fulbari, Jalpaiguri district, Sabita Barman, 38, allegedly took her life after being beaten by locals for being in a relationship outside her marriage. Her husband, Tapas Barman, claims that neighbors threatened to attack their home if he allowed her to return. Four people, including a couple associated with the TMC, have been arrested for abetment to suicide.

Political and Social Context: Chopra is a Muslim-majority area near the India-Bangladesh border, with a history of political violence. The region has seen incidents similar to the one in Sandeshkhali, where a local TMC leader was accused of torture and sexual assault. Despite the arrest of Tajmul Islam, the local community remains silent, and no one is willing to stand by the victims.

Mob Violence in West Bengal: The Chopra case is part of a larger pattern of mob violence in West Bengal. Recent incidents include the beating to death of Irshad Alam in Kolkata and Prasen Mondal in Bidhannagar, both on suspicion of theft. The state government has announced compensation and jobs for the families of lynching victims, but the West Bengal (Prevention of Lynching) Bill, 2019, is still awaiting the Governor’s assent.

Legal and Legislative Efforts: The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which recently replaced the Indian Penal Code, has introduced capital punishment for mob lynching. However, experts argue that stronger laws alone cannot tackle the issue of mob frenzy.

Current Status: Rubina and Rafiq continue to live together despite the stigma and hostility. They have expressed their desire to stay together as a couple.

Summary:

• Incident: Rubina and Rafiq were beaten in a kangaroo court in Chopra, West Bengal.
• Related Case: Sabita Barman allegedly took her life after being beaten by locals in Fulbari.
• Political Context: The region has a history of political violence and mob justice.
• Mob Violence: Similar incidents have occurred across West Bengal, highlighting a broader issue.
• Legislative Efforts: The West Bengal (Prevention of Lynching) Bill, 2019, is pending, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has introduced capital punishment for mob lynching.
• Current Status: Rubina and Rafiq continue to live together despite societal hostility.

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