Kolkata, Oct 12: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday described the gangrape of a medical student in Durgapur as a “shocking” and “unacceptable” crime, but her comments on women’s movement at night drew sharp criticism for appearing restrictive.
Speaking to reporters at the Kolkata airport, Banerjee said her government had “zero tolerance” for crimes against women and assured that all those involved would be brought to justice.
“This is a shocking incident. We have zero tolerance for such crimes. Three accused have already been arrested, and police are searching for others. Nobody will be spared,” Banerjee said.
According to police, the survivor — a second-year student from Jaleswar in Odisha’s Balasore district — was allegedly gangraped by several men near her private medical college campus in Durgapur on Friday night. The attack reportedly occurred after she stepped out with a friend for dinner.
In her initial response, however, the Chief Minister appeared to question the college’s supervision and the timing of the student’s outing.
“She was studying in a private medical college. Whose responsibility is it? How did she come out at 12.30 a.m.? Girls should not be allowed to go outside the college at night. They also have to take care of their own safety,” Banerjee said.
She further remarked that hostel students, particularly those from outside the state, should adhere to institutional rules and avoid venturing out late, even though they have every legal right to move freely.
“Students living in hostels, especially those from other states, are expected to follow hostel rules. They should avoid going out late at night, although they have the fundamental right to go wherever they wish,” she added.
Acknowledging practical constraints faced by the police, Banerjee noted that law enforcement cannot monitor every individual’s movements round the clock.
“The police have logistical limitations. Officers cannot stand guard outside every home or track who is leaving at night,” she said.
The Chief Minister also urged private educational institutions to take greater responsibility for ensuring safety on and around their campuses.
Tags: prameyanews Odia Medical Student Mamata Banerjee Durgapur Horror
