Odisha Women’s Commission Team Heads to Durgapur to Support Gang-Rape Survivor
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Commission for Women has announced plans to visit Durgapur, West Bengal, to investigate and offer full assistance to an Odia MBBS student who was reportedly gang-raped by five local youths near a private medical college in Paschim Bardhaman district on Friday. The information was confirmed by Commission Chairman Sovana Mohanty on Sunday.
It was reported that four people were arrested, while the key suspect is still at large.
Describing the incident as “extremely barbaric”, Mohanty said the Commission was working closely with the survivor’s family. “I am doing everything possible within my personal authority to ensure an appropriate response. No one is above the law; those responsible will be punished,” he said.
She alleged that her attempts to contact the West Bengal Women’s Commission remained unanswered.
As per the official order of the Balasore Additional District Magistrate, a team from Odisha was sent to Durgapur to assess the situation on the spot. This team will liaise with local authorities to ensure that the victim and their family receive all necessary support, including medical, legal and logistical.
District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) Jyotsna Mohanty stated that the survivor, who is originally from Balasore district, is showing signs of gradual recovery.
“We are maintaining necessary coordination with the West Bengal Police and the Odisha government will provide all possible support to the family throughout his recovery.”
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi personally spoke to the survivor’s father and provided full state support. A senior official has been appointed to coordinate with the West Bengal administration to ensure continued medical, legal and emotional support. The CM promised to step up support if necessary and stressed that the accused should face maximum punishment under the law.
According to information received from police sources, 3 people have been detained so far and the fourth person has been detained. Investigations are continuing to capture the remaining suspects.
The Odisha delegation is expected to meet Durgapur police officials soon and review the progress of the investigation and the medical care provided to the survivors. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women has also demanded an action report from the West Bengal police within five days.
