Bagdogra, West Bengal – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and affiliated groups led a large protest march in Bagdogra on January 29, 2026, demanding strict action against those responsible for the alleged assault on a pregnant tribal woman, which reportedly resulted in the tragic death of her newborn child.
The rally, organized by the Janjati Suraksha Manch, drew a significant crowd from the Adivasi community and other castes, demonstrating cross-community solidarity against injustice. Protesters marched through the streets, carrying banners and chanting slogans condemning the incident and calling for justice. The event was described as a symbol of unity, with participants emphasizing that society stands together when voices rise against wrongdoing.
The assault occurred on January 23, 2026, during a reported attempt to forcibly take over land. According to BJP MLA Durga Murmu, who addressed the rally, a leader accompanied by police personnel threatened locals, claiming the land did not belong to them and forcing them to leave. The pregnant woman, Roshni, intervened to protect her property and was allegedly assaulted, dragged by her hair, and beaten. “This is a very painful incident,” Murmu stated, highlighting the brutality involved.
Victim’s family member Lipi Munda shared harrowing details: “When he was beating my mother, he also assaulted the pregnant woman too. He is lying when he says he didn’t hit her. When the baby was born, there were dark marks on the child’s body, on the legs and chest. Those were injury marks, otherwise, how would such marks appear?”
The protest underscored broader concerns over land disputes and violence against marginalized communities in the region. Organizers noted the rally’s success, with widespread support indicating a collective resolve to support each other and guide society toward justice.
