On Sunday, West Bengal Police arrested three suspects linked to the alleged sexual assault of a 23-year-old MBBS student near her college in Durgapur. The incident occurred on Friday night when the student went out for a meal with a friend, who left her partway through. Following this, a group of men allegedly dragged her into a nearby forest, stole ₹5,000 and her phone, and threatened to kill her if she screamed. The victim, currently receiving medical attention and accompanied by her mother, is reported to be stable but significantly traumatized. A delegation from the National Commission for Women (NCW) visited her on Saturday and has requested a comprehensive action report from West Bengal officials within five days.
Her parents, who arrived in Durgapur after being informed by her classmates, included the friend and his associates in their police report. Meanwhile, students at the private medical college protested on campus, criticizing the administration for its lack of action and delay in filing a First Information Report (FIR). Police confirmed that the three suspects are being questioned and that CCTV footage is under review. The state health department has also requested an official report from the college. The case has attracted political attention, with BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari accusing the ruling TMC government of not ensuring women’s safety.
In response, Minister Shashi Panja urged against politicizing the case and highlighted that the chief minister would ensure strict action after the investigation concludes. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condemned the attack and instructed officials to work with West Bengal authorities to provide full support to the survivor’s family.