What Happened When the Odisha Women Panel Visited Bengal's Durgapur?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A critical situation unfolds in Durgapur as the Odisha State Commission for Women investigates a shocking gang rape case involving an Odia medical student. Amidst political backlash, the focus shifts to justice and women's rights. Will this incident spark a much-needed conversation on safety for women in society?
Key Takeaways
- Odisha State Commission for Women prioritizes victim support.
- Political leaders are raising concerns about women's safety.
- The incident has ignited discussions on gender discrimination.
- Community response is crucial for justice.
- Awareness is key to preventing such incidents in the future.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 13 (NationPress) A three-member delegation from the Odisha State Commission for Women, under the leadership of Chairperson Sovana Mohanty, visited Durgapur in West Bengal on Monday. They aimed to assess the condition of the Odia medical student who was tragically gang-raped by criminals in the adjacent state last week.
"In light of the gang rape incident involving a young woman from Jaleswar, we (Odisha State Commission for Women) are on our way to Durgapur Medical College and Hospital to meet the victim and check on her health status. We will also engage with her family members. Additionally, the team will consult with the local police authorities and West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar to ensure the investigation is being handled appropriately. A report will be submitted to the Odisha government afterward," Mohanty stated.
In the meantime, several leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, have criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her controversial remarks suggesting that "girls should not be allowed to go out at night" in response to the alleged gang rape of the medical student from Jaleswar.
On her official X account, Deputy CM Parida labeled CM Banerjee's comments as 'disheartening' and an 'affront' to women nationwide.
"A woman leader like Mamata Banerjee, known as 'Didi' and serving as a female Chief Minister, has let down women with her statement, 'Girls should not venture out at night.'"
"This comment from the West Bengal Chief Minister has not only shocked and insulted me but also the 4.90 crore women of West Bengal," Deputy CM Parida expressed.
"Instead of delivering justice for the rape victim, the West Bengal Chief Minister has no right to endorse gender-based discrimination or question the rights of women and girls," she continued.
"If she (Mamata Banerjee) lacks compassion for the victim because she is an Odia girl, then let the Odisha government be informed in writing. We are fully capable of safeguarding our children even in your state. Such a lack of shame is utterly unacceptable. If girls cannot expect empathy, safety, and justice from a woman Chief Minister, then to whom should they turn?" she added.
According to reports, the victim, a second-year medical student from a private medical college in West Burdwan district's Durgapur, had stepped outside the college campus with a male friend for dinner last Friday night when a group of young men on motorcycles began to stalk them while making inappropriate comments.
The accused allegedly frightened off the male companion, dragged the medical student into a nearby wooded area, and gang-raped her. They also confiscated the victim's mobile phone and disposed of it.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to report on this incident with integrity and sensitivity. The Odisha State Commission for Women's involvement highlights the importance of addressing violence against women. This situation should prompt a national dialogue on safety, justice, and the empowerment of women in society, ensuring that they can live free from fear.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions are being taken by the Odisha State Commission for Women?
The Odisha State Commission for Women has sent a team to Durgapur to meet with the victim, assess her health, and consult with local authorities regarding the investigation.
What did West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee say about the incident?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faced backlash for her remarks suggesting that 'girls should not go out at night' in response to the gang rape case.
What is the current status of the victim?
The victim, a second-year medical student, is receiving medical attention, and her health condition is being monitored by the Odisha State Commission for Women.
