MBBS Student Allegedly Gang-Raped in Bengal’s Durgapur; Classmate Detained

The Incident and Investigation A 23-year-old MBBS student from a private medical college in Durgapur was allegedly gang-raped by four to five unidentified men on Friday night. The assault happened shortly after she left the campus with a male classmate to have dinner. The survivor stated that they were stopped by a group of men who demanded money and snatched her phone. When her classmate left the spot, three of the men allegedly dragged her to a secluded area and raped her. The classmate returned later, found her injured, and took her back to the hostel.

The woman, who is originally from Balasore, Odisha, is currently receiving hospital treatment. Based on her complaint and recorded statement, the police have registered a case of gang rape and launched a full investigation. The college issued a press release confirming the student reported an assault that occurred off-campus.

The Classmate Under Scrutiny The police have detained the male classmate for questioning. The survivor’s parents, who rushed to Durgapur after receiving a call from him, have voiced strong suspicion regarding his role in the incident. They suggest he and his associates might be involved in the crime, leading to the ongoing police questioning of the detained student.

Public and Political Reaction The alleged assault has sparked significant outrage. Students at the medical college have organized a sit-in protest, demanding a prompt and impartial investigation and a written statement from the principal.

Politically, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly criticized the Mamata Banerjee-led Bengal government, alleging a complete breakdown of women’s safety and law and order in the state. BJP leaders have accused the government of creating an unsafe environment, with one Union Minister claiming Bengal has become a “safe haven for rapists and criminals.” The party is demanding that the Trinamool Congress government be held accountable for the incident.