West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee landed in a fresh controversy on Sunday after she seemingly placed responsibility on women to ensure their own safety while commenting on the alleged gangrape of a second-year MBBS student in Durgapur.
While assuring that the culprits would face the “strictest punishment,” the Chief Minister suggested that colleges should restrict female students from going out after dark, and women should be cautious about venturing out at night, especially in areas like the one where the incident occurred.
“The girls should not be allowed to go outside (college) at night. They have to protect themselves also. There is a forest area,” the Bengal Chief Minister stated. She, however, added, “Police are searching all the people. Nobody will be excused. Whoever is guilty will be punished strictly.”
Durgapur Gangrape: The Incident
The controversy stems from the alleged gangrape of an MBBS student from a private medical college in Durgapur on Friday night. The survivor, who hails from Jaleswar, Odisha, had reportedly stepped out with a classmate to get food.
According to the victim’s father, her male classmate “abandoned her and fled” when two or three other men arrived. The father, who was informed by his daughter’s friend at 10 PM, highlighted the lack of adequate security arrangements. “This incident occurred between 8:00 and 9:00 PM… The security arrangements are not sufficient… Such a serious incident occurred, but no action has been taken,” the father told reporters.
Three Arrested, Police Assure Strictest Action
The Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissionerate confirmed on Sunday that three accused have been arrested in connection with the case. The police are continuing their investigation, including looking into the role of the classmate who was with the victim.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has also condemned the “heinous” crime and urged CM Banerjee to ensure “exemplary action” against the perpetrators. The incident has intensified the political slugfest in the state, with Opposition parties, including the BJP, strongly criticising the Trinamool Congress government over the law and order situation and the safety of women.