Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday spoke with the Odia girl who is undergoing treatment at a hospital after being allegedly gang-raped in Durgapur, West Bengal, last Friday.
The Chief Minister also held separate conversations with the survivor’s mother and Odisha State Women’s Commission (OSWC) Chairperson Sobhana Mohanty.
Expressing concern over the incident, CM Majhi wished the survivor a speedy recovery and assured her that the State government would make all necessary arrangements for her education. He also promised that those involved in the crime would be punished without delay.
During the conversation, the survivor informed the Chief Minister that her health condition is gradually improving. Majhi advised her to remain strong and patient, assuring her that the government stands firmly with her in this difficult time.
“The Odisha government will make all arrangements for your education and safety,” the Chief Minister told her. He said steps would be taken, if required, to shift her to Bhubaneswar so she could continue her studies in a safer environment.
Majhi also spoke with the girl’s mother, who expressed concern about her daughter’s future. The Chief Minister informed her that, since the survivor studies in a private school, discussions are underway with the school authorities to make suitable arrangements. He reiterated the government’s commitment to stand by the family and ensure justice.
“All possible forums will be used to press for swift action in the case,” Majhi added.
Meanwhile, all five accused in the case have been arrested and forwarded to court.
According to police, the incident took place on Friday night when the second-year medical student from Odisha went out for dinner with a male friend near the Durgapur campus. A group of youths on motorcycles allegedly harassed them, chased away her friend, and dragged the student into a forested area behind the campus, where she was gang-raped. The accused also snatched and discarded her mobile phone.
The victim was later rescued by her friend and other students and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital. Her father has appealed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to allow her to return to Odisha.
