A second-year medical student from Odisha was allegedly sexually assaulted by a group of unidentified men outside a private medical college in Durgapur on Friday night, police officials said.
The 23-year-old woman, originally from Jaleswar in Odisha’s Balasore district, was dining out with a friend when the incident took place around 10 pm, according to her family. She is currently undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital, and her condition is reported to be stable.
Investigation Underway
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Durgapur) said an FIR has been registered following a complaint filed by the survivor’s family.
“Based on the complaint lodged by the family members, we have started an investigation. The student’s statement has been recorded,” the officer said.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the woman was taken to a secluded area near the college after her phone was allegedly snatched. The accused then demanded money in exchange for returning the device.
A forensic team is expected to visit the site to collect evidence, while police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the suspects.
Family Speaks Out
The student’s parents, who reached Durgapur on Saturday morning, said they were informed about the incident by their daughter’s friends.
“We came here as soon as we received the call and filed a complaint. We chose this college because of its academic reputation, but never imagined such an incident could occur,” the student’s father told reporters.
Police sources said the survivor had stepped out of the campus with her friend around 8:30 pm, and the assault allegedly took place soon after.
National Commission for Women Intervenes
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken cognizance of the incident and dispatched a team to Durgapur to meet the survivor and her family.
NCW member Archana Majumdar condemned the incident and criticised what she described as inadequate policing in the state.
“Crimes against women are rising in Bengal. The police must act swiftly and sensitively. We urge the Chief Minister to work in coordination with the Centre to ensure justice,” Majumdar said.
College and Government Response
Meanwhile, the West Bengal health department has sought a report from the private medical college administration.
“We have asked the college authorities to provide a detailed account of the events leading up to the incident and the security arrangements on campus,” a senior official said.
The state police have assured a thorough investigation and promised strict action against those found guilty.
The Durgapur assault has once again brought the focus back to student safety and women’s security in semi-urban education hubs.
As investigations continue, women’s groups have called for stronger security protocols, gender sensitisation measures, and accountability from institutions responsible for student welfare.
