West Bengal Police Arrests 3 Men In Medical Student's Rape Case: 2 Others Still On Run

Three men have been apprehended by West Bengal police in connection with the gang-rape of a medical student on hospital grounds. Two suspects are still at large. The victim, originally from Jaleswar in Odisha, is studying for her MBBS degree in Durgapur.

The incident occurred late Friday evening when the second-year student was allegedly attacked near a private medical college in Shobhapur, about 170 km from Kolkata. She had left the campus around 8:30 pm with a male friend when she was reportedly dragged to a secluded spot behind the hospital and assaulted.

Investigation and Reactions

Local authorities quickly responded to the scene after being alerted. They have begun an investigation, and the student has been admitted to a hospital for medical examination and remains under supervision. Several individuals, including college staff and the male friend, are being questioned by the police.

The West Bengal Doctors' Front (WBDF) has strongly condemned this crime, highlighting it as another stark reminder of women's safety issues within educational institutions. They have called for justice and urged the Chief Justice of India to initiate a judicial inquiry into the matter.

Political Responses

Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi expressed his deep concern over this incident. He stated that senior officials have been directed to liaise with West Bengal authorities to ensure all necessary support is provided to the victim's family by the Odisha government.

The BJP has criticised the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government over its handling of law and order in West Bengal. Amit Malviya, BJP IT cell chief, stated on X that women will continue living in fear unless accountability is enforced on Mamata Banerjee's administration.

Counterarguments

TMC leader Shashi Panja responded to these criticisms by accusing the BJP of politicising a sensitive issue. She questioned why similar voices were absent during other crises like those in Manipur or when women protested at Jantar Mantar.

Dimple Yadav from Samajwadi Party also commented on rising crimes against women across various states governed by BJP. She emphasised that such incidents are not limited to West Bengal alone but occur elsewhere too, urging governments to address this societal failure responsibly.

This case draws parallels with last year's RG Kar Medical College tragedy where a junior doctor was raped and murdered, sparking widespread protests throughout West Bengal.