'Durgapur medical student gang-rape shocking': Mamata Banerjee's first statement
What's the story
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called the alleged gang rape of a medical student in Durgapur "shocking." "This is a shocking incident... We have zero tolerance for such crimes," she said. The incident took place on Friday night when a second-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) student from Odisha's Jaleswar went out for dinner with a friend. The police have arrested three suspects and are searching for others involved in the crime.
Health update
Survivor's father demands she be taken back to Odisha
The survivor is currently receiving treatment at the hospital, where she is undergoing medical care. Her father said she is unable to walk and is on bed rest. He expressed fears for her safety in West Bengal and requested CM Banerjee to allow her to be taken back to Odisha, where he believes she would be safer. The arrested suspects have been identified as Apu Bauri (21), Firdos Sekh (23), Sekh Reajuddin (31), and Sheikh Sofiqul.
Case progress
Accused took victim to nearby forest after attack: Mother
The survivor's mother alleged that after the incident, her daughter was taken to a nearby forest area by the accused, and her daughter's friend fled when they were being followed by three men. "When the three men found my daughter alone, they took her to a nearby forest area. Two more people joined them. One of them committed the crime and snatched her mobile. She was threatened that she would be killed if she dared to shout," the mother added.
Public response
Incident sparks political controversy
The incident has sparked political controversy between the ruling Trinamool Congress and opposition parties. Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi also condemned the incident and urged Banerjee to take immediate action against those responsible. Banerjee has asked private colleges to ensure security on and around their campuses, saying, "Private colleges must ensure security within and around their campuses."