In a strong statement following the alleged gangrape of an MBBS student in Durgapur, National Commission for Women (NCW) member Archana Majumdar criticized the handling of the investigation and called on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to address the broader issue of women’s safety in the state.
Majumdar, who met the survivor at the hospital the day after the incident, described the young woman as physically weak and emotionally shattered, still undergoing medical treatment at the time. “Her bleeding had stopped, but she was extremely fragile, and unable to process the trauma she had endured,” Majumdar stated.
She confirmed that the NCW team had immediately reached the city, met the survivor, and recorded her statement. According to the survivor, she was accompanied by a friend when they were approached by a group of individuals. “Three of them led her into a wooded area. One assaulted her, two others molested her, and two more took her mobile phone and ₹200 and never returned them,” Majumdar detailed.
She further questioned the accuracy of the police’s actions, citing a discrepancy in the number of suspects. “The girl’s statement does not mention six individuals, yet six people have been arrested,” she said, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparent investigation.
Majumdar also expressed concern over forensic negligence, stating that the crime scene was not initially examined thoroughly. “Whether due to ignorance or deliberate delay, this is a serious lapse,” she said, stressing that the commission has documented photos, videos, and the survivor’s testimony.
Importantly, she addressed reports linking the accused to political affiliations. “If law enforcement is acting under political pressure, the NCW will not stay silent. We are determined to ensure that this doesn’t become another R.G. Kar incident,” Majumdar warned.
She concluded with a direct appeal to the state leadership: “Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee must take responsibility for ensuring the safety of girls in West Bengal. They deserve protection.”
Meanwhile, the Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissionerate confirmed that a sixth person—the survivor’s friend—was taken into custody for questioning, marking a significant turn in the case. Police Commissioner Sunil Kumar Choudhary had earlier confirmed that five suspects, whose presence at the crime scene was verified, had already been arrested.
The case continues to unfold, with increasing public scrutiny and mounting calls for justice.
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