Rahul Arunoday death case to be handed over to CID

A new development has emerged in the investigation into the unnatural death of West Bengal actor and presenter Rahul Arunoday Bandyopadhyay. Nearly two and a half months after the incident, steps are being taken to transfer the case to West Bengal's Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

According to Indian media reports, following a recent administrative meeting, authorities have assured a full investigation into the matter, and the process of handing over the case to the CID has been initiated.

Earlier, the Odisha government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe Rahul's death. The West Bengal administration has now decided to take necessary measures in coordination with that investigation.

The East Midnapore district police administration has been directed to complete the legal process quickly and transfer the investigation to the CID.

Various quarters have been demanding a thorough investigation into the actor's death, while questions have also been raised about the safety of performers on shooting sets. The All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has also voiced its concern, alleging that the accident may have occurred due to negligence in safety protocols.

The Odisha SIT is also examining whether any negligence or safety lapses occurred on the shooting set.

According to the autopsy report, Rahul's death was due to suffocation, a fact that has been confirmed by the investigation team . Reports indicate that the initial post-mortem report did not find any major external injuries, which had fuelled speculation and led to demands for a deeper probe.

The investigation has also widened to include the insurance policies held by the actor, as his family has alleged that he was murdered and suspects "financial foul play" by his business partner, Shubho Shankar Kanungo, who has been arrested.