Class IX student allegedly abducted and raped in Tripura, car driver arrested

By  News On Air   Jul 19, 2026

Agartala, July 19 (FD) Tripura Police have arrested the driver of a car and launched a manhunt for the prime accused following the alleged abduction and rape of a Class IX student while she was on her way to school in West Chebri Gram Panchayat under Khowai district, officials said.
The incident occurred around 10:30 am on Friday when the minor was walking to her school near the Anukul Thakur Ashram in Nandan Pally. According to a complaint lodged by the victim's family, two youths travelling in a car intercepted the student and allegedly forced her into the vehicle.
Police said the prime accused, identified as Rajesh Debnath, allegedly raped with the minor inside the moving car before abandoning her by the roadside and fleeing the scene.
The victim then stopped a passing auto-rickshaw and sought help from the driver, who informed her family. Her family members reached the spot and took her to the Women's Police Station, where a written complaint was filed.
Acting on the complaint, police launched an investigation and arrested the driver of the vehicle, identified as Ashish Debnath. The car allegedly used in the incident has also been seized.
"A case has been registered under the relevant sections of law, and the driver of the vehicle has been arrested. Efforts are underway to trace the prime accused, Rajesh Debnath, who has been absconding since the incident," a senior police official said.
The victim has been sent for medical examination, and her statement is being recorded as part of the investigation.
The incident has triggered concern among local residents, who expressed alarm over the alleged abduction occurring in broad daylight.
The prime accused remains absconding. FD JK