The West Bengal Police on Monday confirmed that all five accused in the alleged Durgapur gangrape case have been arrested. This comes a day after three suspects were taken into custody, following the assault of a medical student that has sparked political and public outrage across the state.
The police said two additional suspects were arrested early Monday morning, completing the list of those allegedly involved in the case.
“All five accused are now in custody, and interrogation is underway,” a senior police officer said.
Odisha Student Assaulted Outside Medical College
The survivor, a second-year MBBS student from Jaleswar in Odisha, was allegedly raped by a group of men near the campus of a private medical college in Durgapur on Friday night. According to the police, the incident occurred when she stepped out with a friend for dinner.
The student is currently receiving medical treatment at the same hospital where she studies. Authorities said her condition is stable and that she has already recorded her statement.
Controversy Over Mamata Banerjee’s Comment
The incident triggered a major political row after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee commented on the case, questioning why the student was outside so late at night. Her remarks drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders and activists, who accused her of victim shaming.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and members of the National Commission for Women (NCW) demanded an apology from the Chief Minister, urging her to focus on ensuring women’s safety rather than making “insensitive” statements.
Banerjee later said her words had been “distorted by the media.”
Investigation Underway
Police officials said forensic evidence and CCTV footage from nearby areas are being examined. The state government has also ordered a high-level review of women’s security measures in Durgapur and nearby districts.
