Three persons were arrested on Sunday for their alleged involvement in the gang rape of a second-year medical student from Odisha in West Bengal’s Paschim Bardhaman district, police said. The accused are currently being interrogated, and their identities have not yet been disclosed.
Incident outside medical college campus
According to police officials, the incident occurred on Friday night near a private medical college campus in Durgapur, where the 22-year-old student was pursuing her studies. The survivor, who hails from Jaleswar in Odisha’s Balasore district, had gone out for dinner with a friend when she was allegedly abducted and assaulted by unidentified men.
“She was brought to the hospital soon after the incident and is currently receiving treatment. Her statement has been recorded,” said a senior police officer.
The police have registered a case of gang rape under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and are verifying CCTV footage from the area to trace additional suspects.
Arrests and investigation
“We have arrested three persons in connection with the case. They are being questioned. This is a very sensitive case, and we will give out further details later,” the officer added.
Sources said forensic teams have collected samples from the crime scene, and further medical examinations are underway. Preliminary investigations suggest that the survivor and her friend were targeted when returning to the hostel area after dinner.
Political reactions
The case has triggered political outrage across state lines. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed grave concern and urged his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee to ensure swift and strict action against the perpetrators.
In a statement, Majhi said, “Such heinous acts are unacceptable. We expect justice to be delivered swiftly and the culprits to face the harshest punishment under law.”
Opposition parties in West Bengal also criticised the state government over women’s safety, alleging administrative failure. Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanded that the case be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a fair probe.
Public outrage and demand for justice
The incident has sparked protests by students and women’s organisations in Durgapur, demanding stronger security measures near educational institutions. Activists also highlighted the need for better street lighting and patrolling in areas frequented by students.
Social media has seen an outpouring of anger and solidarity for the survivor, with several users calling for fast-track trial proceedings to ensure justice.
Current situation
Police said that the accused are being interrogated to identify others possibly involved in the crime. The victim continues to remain under medical supervision, and her condition is said to be stable.
Authorities have assured that a comprehensive report will be made public after preliminary investigations are completed.