Hailakandi, Assam | August 7, 2026

An alleged rape and murder case involving a 15-year-old schoolgirl in Assam's Hailakandi district has drawn widespread attention. According to police, the incident occurred inside the victim's home on the night of August 2.

Police said the teenager had returned home alone from a nearby family function following an argument with her cousins. About an hour later, when her family arrived home, they allegedly found her dead.

According to the preliminary post-mortem examination and the ongoing police investigation, the victim sustained multiple injuries. Police officials stated that injury marks were found on different parts of her body, including severe injuries to her private parts.

Investigators have alleged that the victim was subjected to physical assault before her death. The case has prompted concern in the local community, and police are continuing their investigation to determine the complete sequence of events.

Police have arrested three suspects aged between 17 and 19 years, including one juvenile. On Thursday, the District and Sessions Judge, Hailakandi, granted six days of police custody for two of the accused, identified as Apu Malakar and Joydeep Reang. The juvenile accused has been sent to an observation home in Silchar in accordance with the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.

The accused have been booked under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to conduct a detailed investigation. Police have also stated that additional arrests may be made if further evidence emerges during the course of the investigation.

The incident has led to public protests and renewed demands for a fair, transparent, and speedy investigation. Citizens, social organisations, and activists have called for strict legal action against anyone found guilty in accordance with the law.

Authorities have urged the public not to circulate rumours or unverified information while the investigation is underway. Police have reiterated that the allegations remain subject to judicial proceedings, and all accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a competent court of law.

Investigators continue to collect evidence as the inquiry progresses. The case has also renewed discussions on women's and children's safety and the importance of effective measures to prevent such crimes.