West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The alleged gang rape of a medical student in Durgapur, West Bengal, the police have arrested all five accused within 48 hours of the incident. The 23-year-old second-year MBBS student, originally from Jaleswar, Odisha, was reportedly assaulted on the night of October 10 near her college campus. She had stepped out with a friend to get dinner when the attack occurred.

The police's rapid action led to the identification and arrest of the suspects. On Sunday night, after extensive questioning, an official from the Durgapur Municipal Corporation was taken into custody. The following day, investigators apprehended the final suspect, identified as Shafiqul Sheikh, whom they believe to be the primary perpetrator. All five individuals have been remanded to police custody, and the authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if more individuals were involved. 

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock over the assault and questioned why the student was permitted to leave the campus at 12:30 a.m., emphasizing the institution's responsibility to ensure student safety. She confirmed that three suspects had already been arrested and assured that strict action would be taken against all involved. The Chief Minister also highlighted the challenges of maintaining police presence in remote areas and urged students, especially those from other states unfamiliar with the terrain, to exercise caution. 

The Odisha State Commission for Women has also taken an active interest in the case. A delegation from Odisha visited Durgapur to meet with the survivor's family and assess her condition. They expressed satisfaction with the progress of the investigation and assured the family of full support in cooperation with the Bengal government. The survivor is currently undergoing treatment at the same hospital where the incident occurred. 

This case has sparked a broader conversation about campus safety and the need for stringent measures to protect students. Authorities are under pressure to ensure that justice is served swiftly and that such incidents do not recur.