By: The Trek News Desk
In a swift response to a harrowing incident, police have arrested three suspects within 36 hours in connection with the gang‑rape of a second-year MBBS student inside the premises of a private medical college in Durgapur. The girl, who hails from Odisha, was forcibly dragged out of the campus on Friday night and brutally assaulted by multiple assailants.
What Happened
The victim, accompanied by a male acquaintance, had stepped out of the college campus when the trio allegedly grabbed her, transported her toward a nearby forested area, and committed the assault. Traumatized, she was admitted to the hospital and is now reported to be in a stable but fragile condition.
Arrests & Investigation Steps
According to Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Gupta of the Asansol–Durgapur Police Commissionerate:
“We apprehended all three accused and produced them before the court. The investigation is proceeding according to standard protocol.”
The arrested persons have been named as:
- Apu Bauri (21)
- Firdous Sheikh (23)
- Sheikh Riajuddin (32)
Investigators recovered the victim’s mobile phone from the possession of one of the suspects. One of the accused has publicly claimed innocence, dismissing the allegations as false.
Police also used drone surveillance and location tracking of the accused’s phone to trace their path into the forest region. Meanwhile, the role of the female student’s male companion is under scrutiny.
Family Plea & Safety Concerns
The victim’s father expressed grave concern:
“My daughter is just about stable, but she cannot even walk. I cannot leave her here. I fear these men may kill her. I have appealed to the Odisha Chief Minister to allow me to bring her home.”
He further added that officials, including the Chief Minister, the Director General of Police, and the Superintendent of Police, are attempting to extend assistance. However, he remains deeply frightened about ensuring his daughter’s safety in Durgapur.
Legal Action & Official Response
The arrested accused face charges under Section 70(1) of the Indian Penal Code (gang‑rape) and Section 3(5) (joint criminal liability).
Late Saturday night, Deputy Magistrate Ranjan Rai visited the hospital to meet with the victim and her family, assuring:
“This is a miserable case. The administration is offering every possible support, and we hope she recovers soon and returns to a normal life.”
Meanwhile, Health Secretary Narayan Swaroop Nayak has ordered the medical education director to submit a detailed report on the incident. The state’s Principal Health Secretary confirmed that administrative action and internal inquiry measures are underway.
Women’s Commission Steps In
The National Commission for Women has taken Suo motu cognizance of the case. It has issued a directive to the state government, asking for a detailed status report within five days, including all steps taken thus far.
Source: News Agencies
