Silchar (Gurpreet Singh): The Cachar district police have arrested two individuals following the alleged gang rape and extortion of a 28-year-old woman near Silchar, Assam. The incident, which reportedly took place on February 19, involves at least seven men who attacked the victim while she was out with her boyfriend on Bypass Road.
According to the victim’s complaint, the group of men arrived in an SUV and intercepted the couple’s car. After questioning them, the attackers allegedly grabbed the woman and raped her individually in front of her companion. The suspects also reportedly extorted ₹10,000 from the victim, forcing her to transfer the amount electronically to one of their accounts.
The Silchar Sadar police station has registered a case under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including gang rape, dacoity, and criminal intimidation. While the police initially maintained a low profile regarding the investigation, the case gained significant social media attention on Tuesday after a local journalist was allegedly assaulted by the family members of one of the accused for reporting on the crime.
Current Status of the Investigation
The police have confirmed that the victim’s mandatory medical examination has been conducted and her statement has been recorded. Senior officers are currently working to identify and apprehend the remaining five suspects involved in the assault.
- Arrests: Two primary suspects identified by the victim and one person involved in the attack on the journalist are in custody.
- Charges: The FIR includes Sections 70(1) (gang rape), 308(5) (extortion by death threat), and 76 (criminal force with intent to disrobe).
- Political Reaction: Rajya Sabha MP Sushmita Dev met with the Superintendent of Police (SP) to demand an update, warning against any potential cover-up. She emphasized that the Trinamool Congress (AITC) is closely monitoring the progress of the medical reports and legal action.
Police officials have appealed to the public to refrain from spreading misinformation on social media platforms while the investigation continues. Coordination with state-level forensic teams is expected as the police trace the electronic trail of the extorted funds.
