Mumbai Musician Arrested for Alleged Molestation
A renowned musician from Mumbai has found himself embroiled in legal trouble after being arrested by Kolkata police for allegedly molesting a 15-year-old girl at his music institute. Sanjay Chakraborty, who is related to prominent musician Pandit Ajoy Chakraborty, was apprehended after authorities conducted extensive investigations over nearly two months.
The incident reportedly took place back in June when the singer, conducting singing classes, allegedly molested the young student after the class had concluded. According to police reports, Chakraborty waited until all the other students had left before he carried out the alleged act. It wasn't until the girl underwent psychological treatment in Bengaluru and disclosed the incident during therapy sessions, prompting her parents to file a formal complaint, leading to the police action.
Initially, the girl’s parents lodged their complaint via email with the Belgharia police station located in North 24 Parganas district. This led to the police filing a zero FIR, meaning they could register the report without waiting for jurisdictional transfers, which later moved to the Charu Market police station for investigation since the incident occurred within their jurisdiction.
The Kolkata police’s investigations reportedly included reviewing CCTV footage from the yoga institute where the incident was alleged to have occurred, as well as interviewing students and personnel who might have witnessed any suspicious activities. Police sources indicated there was significant public concern and media attention surrounding the case, drawing calls for accountability and transparency.
Upon being apprehended, Chakraborty was produced before the local court, which remanded him to police custody. He now faces serious charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, highlighting the serious nature of these allegations. His legal woes have ignited intense debate and discussion within the musical community and beyond.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kunal Ghosh publicly questioned why there has been silence among top Bengali singers who have previously voiced their opinions on other scandals and instances of abuse within the community. Ghosh challenged prominent singers like Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal to publicly speak out against the alleged actions of Chakraborty, arguing it was hypocritical to stay silent when such crimes come to light.
Chakraborty’s demise has left many shocked, especially those who admired his work and contributions to the music industry. Beyond his familial ties to established musicians, he had built his reputation from his own talents and endeavours within the arts. The legal proceedings now represent not just his personal battle, but also place the spotlight on the underlying issue of safeguarding minors within arts-related industries.
The Kolkata police continue their efforts to gather evidence and witnesses, with additional investigations underway. The fallout from this situation is still developing as more information becomes available both from law enforcement and community reactions.
These developments have raised countless concerns around safety, accountability, and the broader societal obligation to maintain environments—especially artistic and educational spaces—where young individuals are safe from exploitation and harm. The outcome of the investigation and subsequent trial could very well reverberate throughout the artistic communities across India, serving as both a warning and proactive call to action to protect vulnerable members of society.
While this case moves through the legal system, it’s also triggering discussions about broader norms and practices present within both educational institutions and the arts, as the potential for exploitation exists often where authority is unbalanced. Institutions are being challenged to take more stringent measures to protect those who are most susceptible, ensuring environments reflect safety and ethical interactions.