Balasore, Oct 12: Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi has strongly criticized the West Bengal government following the gang rape of a 23-year-old Odia medical student in Durgapur.

The incident, which occurred near a private medical college, has sparked outrage across Odisha and beyond. So far four of the five accused have been arrested by Durgapur Police.

Sarangi condemned the Mamata Banerjee-led administration for its alleged inaction and delay in apprehending the prime accused. While four individuals have been arrested, Sarangi questioned why the main perpetrator remains at large.

“The West Bengal government claims arrests, but when will the key accused be brought to justice?” he asked.

Also read: Dharmendra Pradhan Condemns Assault On Odia Medical Student

He further stated that West Bengal has become a hub for antisocial and extremist elements, making it unsafe not just for women but for all citizens. Sarangi announced his intention to visit Durgapur personally to meet the survivor and assess the situation firsthand.

Drawing a comparison with Odisha, Sarangi praised the Odisha government for its swift action in similar cases. He accused Mamata Banerjee of trying to overshadow Odisha’s governance and suggested that her statements reflect a desire to politically dominate the region.

Reacting to the incident, Mamata Banerjee on Sunday said that girls should not be allowed to go out at night, but asserted that her government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against such heinous crimes and asked the police to take stringent action against the accused persons.

"Students from outside come here to study. I would request them not to go out at night because the police don't get to know who is going out at night. The police cannot keep a watch on everyone by going to their doorstep. The private medical college also has a responsibility to take care of its students," said CM Banerjee.

"If anyone goes out at 12.30 am and something happens, we condemn what happened. We do not support the incident. Everyone is free to go anywhere. But everyone, especially those who live in hostels, must exercise caution. I have asked the police to take stringent action. Nobody will be spared," she added further.

Four persons have been arrested on Sunday by the police on charges of gang rape. Three of them have been identified as Sheikh Reajuddin, Apu Bauri and Firdos Seikh. The identity of the fourth accused is yet to be revealed. The fifth accused is still absconding and search is ongoing.

Sarangi, on his part, emphasized that justice for the survivor must be the top priority, demanding the arrest of all culprits, compensation for the victim’s family, and measures to prevent such incidents in the future. “No one should be shielded under political pressure,” he asserted.

The case has reignited debates on women's safety and political accountability in West Bengal, with citizens and leaders alike calling for transparency and justice.