Boy assaulted, set on fire while group films ordeal for social media reel in Kolkata

A social media reel allegedly prompted a group of locals in Kolkata to assault a boy, attempt to make him drink petrol and set his clothes on fire. The incident, which took place on October 27, left the victim with minor burn injuries. Police have arrested the prime accused and detained two minors in connection with the case.

Boy lured on pretext of playing a game

According to the police, the accused approached the boy on the pretext of playing a game before subjecting him to an assault. They allegedly put a helmet on his head, blindfolded him and began beating him.

When the boy grew frustrated and removed the helmet, the group tried to force him to drink petrol. He pushed it away, following which the accused allegedly poured petrol over his body and set his clothes on fire by throwing a lit match at him.

The boy managed to escape and removed his burning clothes. Local residents came to his aid and took him to a hospital, where he received treatment for minor burns.

Incident allegedly filmed for social media reel

During the investigation, police found that one of the minors accused had recorded the incident. The group allegedly intended to use the footage for a social media reel.

Police also found that the accused had allegedly instructed the boy to tell investigators that he had participated in the act voluntarily for a reel if questioned.

Following a complaint by the victim's family, police registered a case of attempted murder. Four people have been arrested in connection with the incident, while two minors have been detained, according to the police.