Bengal Governor invokes British historian, demands action in gangrape case

West Bengal Governor and Chancellor of Calcutta University, C V Ananda Bose, has expressed concern over the ongoing situation at South Calcutta Law College, an institution under the University of Calcutta.

The law college is currently under scrutiny following the gangrape of a first-year student by an ex-student and his associates within the college premises. Governor Bose has demanded swift and decisive action from university authorities.

A statement from the Governor said that he has been in regular communication with the Vice Chancellor of Calcutta University. He has urged the Vice Chancellor to take all necessary steps to safeguard the interests of students and ensure that college administration functions strictly in accordance with established rules and regulations.

“The governance of educational institutions must be conducted without fear or favour,” the Governor said, emphasising that this principle applies uniformly to all colleges and universities across the state.

Highlighting West Bengal’s historic role in imparting quality education, the Governor stated that education is not merely a path to employment, but the cradle of civility, social etiquette, tolerance, respect, and responsible behaviour. Education nurtures emotional intelligence, empathy, and the ability to resolve conflicts — laying the foundation for a harmonious and respectful society.

The Governor also called on civil society to remain vigilant and to actively defend the sanctity of education. “Those who suffer in silence are just as guilty as those committing the excesses,” he remarked, urging collective responsibility in resisting any threats to the academic environment.

"No one — however powerful or well-connected — can be allowed to hold an educational institution hostage or to exert totalitarian power with elements of violence. The law stands above all, and no external force can override the administration governed by established procedures and regulations," the Governor added.

Quoting British historian Thomas Fuller, the Governor reminded, “Be ye never so high, the law is above you.”

The Governor reassured students of the state’s commitment to their safety and education, urging them to continue their academic pursuits without fear. He also called on society to reject all attempts to disrupt the progress of education.

“For every diabolical attempt to insert a ‘full stop’ after education,” the Governor declared, “society must respond by turning it into a semicolon — delivering a clear message: Stop, or we shall make you stop; and the effect will be devastating for you.”

The Governor's statement comes following the recent case where a first-year student of South Calcutta Law College alleged that a former student, Manojit Mishra, raped her in the presence of three of his associates. Investigations revealed that the accused had a long criminal record.

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