Daijiworld Media Network - Durgapur

Durgapur, Oct 12: Three people have been arrested over the gang-rape of a 23-year-old second-year MBBS student from Odisha near a private medical college in Durgapur, West Bengal. A case has been registered under sections related to gang-rape and criminal liability when multiple people act with a common intention.

The incident occurred on Friday night when the student, who studies at IQ City Medical College, went out with a male friend. The trio allegedly took her to a secluded area about a kilometre from the college and raped her before fleeing. The accused also snatched her phone and Rs 5,000, according to the complaint. Officials said the woman is recovering in a Durgapur hospital.

West Bengal Minister for Women and Child Development Shashi Panja confirmed that the survivor will receive psychological counselling. National Commission for Women member Archana Majumdar met the student at the hospital and highlighted the involvement of the friend in misleading her to a vacant place.

Police said multiple people, including the friend, are under interrogation, and urged the public to avoid sharing unverified information. A statement from the West Bengal Police said strict action will be taken and reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy against offences targeting women.

The case has drawn political attention, with BJP leaders criticizing the state government over law and order concerns, while Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi condemned the incident and urged strict action. TMC leader Babul Supriyo called the incident “shameful and tragic” and demanded the harshest punishment for the accused.