Gaighata Encounter: Prabhas Das Killed in Police Shootout

Published: October 27, 2026 · Source: ABP Ananda

A major encounter took place in Gaighata area of North 24 Parganas district on Tuesday, resulting in the death of Prabhas Das, who was wanted in connection with the alleged rape and murder of a minor girl identified as Nabalika. The incident occurred barely three months after a similar encounter in the state, raising questions about law enforcement operations. According to police sources, Das was produced before a local court in Baruipur and was being escorted by constables when he allegedly attempted to flee. During the confrontation, he is accused of snatching a rifle from a police officer and opening fire. In the retaliatory action, several rounds were fired, leading to his death. The victim’s father, who spoke to the media after the encounter, expressed his grief and questioned whether he would ever get back his daughter’s body, demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the encounter. He alleged that Das had been terrorizing the local community and that his arrest earlier had brought some relief. The police stated that a case has been filed and that an inquiry has been ordered to determine whether the use of force was justified. Local authorities confirmed that the weapon snatched during the incident has been recovered and that forensic analysis is underway. Political reactions have begun to surface, with opposition parties questioning the timing and conduct of the encounter, while the ruling party has defended the action as necessary to prevent further lawlessness. The incident has once again sparked a debate over extrajudicial encounters and the balance between swift justice and due process in West Bengal. Meanwhile, the family of the victim continues to seek closure, while human rights activists have called for transparency in the investigation.

Key Highlights

• Prabhas Das, accused in Nabalika rape-murder, killed in Gaighata encounter after allegedly snatching a rifle from police.
• The encounter took place three months after a similar incident in West Bengal, intensifying debates over police encounters.
• Victim's father expressed anguish, questioning whether he would ever get back his daughter, and demanded justice.
• Police claimed the accused attempted to flee and opened fire, prompting retaliatory action resulting in his death.
• An inquiry has been ordered to examine the legality of the encounter and the use of force by law enforcement.

Source: ABP Ananda

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Gaighata encounterPrabhas DasNabalika caseWest Bengal crimepolice encounterBaruipurrape murder case