A horrifying incident of gang rape has shaken the Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh. A 27-year-old tribal woman was allegedly attacked by eight men while returning home from a village fair after celebrating Raksha Bandhan. The incident took place in the Pusaur area on Tuesday, as the woman, who had been separated from her husband for a few years, was walking back with a male acquaintance.
According to the woman’s complaint, they were intercepted by seven other men, known to her acquaintance. These men forcefully dragged her to an isolated location near a pond and allegedly raped her. The attackers left her unconscious and fled the scene.
Swift action followed the complaint, with the Raigarh police arresting six individuals within hours. The remaining two accused are still at large and are being actively sought by the authorities. Raigarh SP Divyang Patel confirmed the arrests, stating that they are interrogating the apprehended suspects to gather information about the whereabouts and identities of the absconding individuals.
The arrested men, aged between 20 and 25, are reportedly unemployed. Authorities believe they targeted the woman due to her marital status, considering her an easy target.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for swift justice. Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel condemned the heinous act and demanded immediate arrest of all the accused. He also emphasized the need for protection for the victim until the accused are convicted.
The police have registered an FIR under Sections 70(1) and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). While the identity of the accused is being withheld to avoid hindering the investigation, the severity of the crime has raised serious concerns about women’s safety in the region.
This disturbing incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures and a robust response system to address crimes against women. The relentless pursuit of the remaining accused and the provision of comprehensive support to the victim are paramount in ensuring justice is served and deterring future occurrences of such heinous acts.
