Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Oct 12: In the wake of the horrifying gang-rape of a medical student in Durgapur, West Bengal, chief minister Mamata Banerjee faced criticism today after she publicly suggested that girls should avoid going out at night.
Speaking to the media outside Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, the CM stressed her government's "zero-tolerance policy" against such heinous crimes and pledged stringent action against the culprits. However, her subsequent comments on women's safety drew sharp focus.
"In Bengal, we have a zero-tolerance policy against such crimes," CM Banerjee stated. "Students from outside come here to study. I would request them not to go out at night because the police don't get to know who is going out at night. The police cannot keep a watch on everyone by going to their doorstep. The private medical college also has a responsibility to take care of its students," she added.
She further elaborated, "If anyone goes out at 12:30 a.m. and something happens... we condemn what happened. We do not support the incident. Everyone is free to go anywhere. But everyone, especially those who live in hostels, must exercise caution." She confirmed that she has instructed the police to take stringent action, assuring that "Nobody will be spared."
Details of the Incident and Arrests
The incident, which occurred on Friday, involved a second-year medical student from Odisha who was allegedly gang-raped outside the campus of a private medical college after she went out for dinner with a male friend. Police reports indicate a group of men on motorcycles began stalking the two, made lewd comments, chased away her friend, and then dragged the student to a forested area where the assault took place. Her mobile phone was also snatched.
The student was found injured by her friend and other college members and subsequently admitted to a local hospital. Following a complaint lodged by the college, Durgapur New Township Police acted quickly.
On Sunday, police arrested three individuals—Sheikh Reajuddin, Apu Bauri, and Firdos Seikh—in connection with the case. The search is currently on for two other absconding accused. West Bengal Police had also detained and questioned the student's male friend on Saturday.
The state health department has sought a detailed report from the private medical college authorities, who have publicly stated their support for the student and committed to full cooperation with the police. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also taken cognizance of the matter, demanding an action taken report from the Bengal DGP within five days.