A 28-year-old woman has alleged that multiple men raped her at knifepoint near Silchar. The incident reportedly occurred on February 19 during an evening outing with her boyfriend. According to police, the survivor filed a complaint soon after the incident. Subsequently, authorities registered a case at Silchar Sadar Police Station. In her FIR, the woman stated that at least seven men assaulted her one by one. Furthermore, she alleged that the accused forced her to transfer Rs 10,000 into one of their accounts.
Sequence of Events
Family members of the victim described the alleged sequence of events. They stated that the couple sat inside a car on the bypass road near Silchar town. At that moment, a group of men reportedly arrived in a Mahindra Thar. According to the family, the men first questioned the couple about their presence.
Soon afterward, the group allegedly grabbed both individuals forcibly. Family members claimed that some of the men restrained the boyfriend. Meanwhile, others allegedly assaulted the woman in front of him. The family further alleged that there were between seven and eight men involved. Additionally, they claimed the assault took place under threat of a knife.
Police Action and Arrests
Police confirmed that the victim identified two of the alleged assailants. Authorities arrested both individuals by Sunday. They identified the accused as Nilotpal Das, aged 25, and Subol Das, aged 27. Both individuals reside in the Ashram Road area of Silchar town.
Police stated that the survivor underwent mandatory medical examinations. Moreover, officials recorded her statement as part of the investigation process. Investigators continue efforts to identify and apprehend other suspects. Consequently, police intensified search operations in and around Silchar.
Public Anger and Political Reaction
The alleged crime sparked widespread anger among local residents. Thousands of citizens posted messages demanding strict action against the accused. Political leaders also reacted strongly to the incident. Trinamool Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sushmita Dev expressed concern publicly.
In a post on X, she described the news as extremely disturbing. Furthermore, she questioned the state government’s commitment to women’s safety. She pointed out that the Chief Minister of Assam also serves as Home Minister. Additionally, she criticised what she described as selective political narratives on women’s security.
Journalist Assaulted
Meanwhile, the incident led to another disturbing development. A Silchar-based journalist, Surajit Chakraborty, alleged that he faced threats and assault. Chakraborty claimed that family members of one accused attacked him for reporting the case. He stated that the incident occurred near the National Highway Road police station.
According to his account, a local businessman named Arabinda Das threatened him. Consequently, concerns have risen regarding press safety in sensitive cases.
Investigation Continues
Police officials emphasised that the investigation remains active and ongoing. They continue collecting evidence and examining digital transaction records. Furthermore, authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas. They aim to reconstruct the timeline of events comprehensively.
Officials have not yet disclosed additional details regarding the alleged extortion transfer. However, investigators are verifying banking and transaction records carefully. The case has intensified demands for stronger law enforcement measures. Residents and leaders alike have called for swift prosecution and justice.
Broader Concerns
The alleged crime has triggered renewed debate over women’s safety. Civil society groups have urged authorities to strengthen preventive measures. Moreover, citizens have emphasised the need for secure public spaces. The incident underscores vulnerabilities even during routine social outings.
As police continue their probe, the community watches developments closely. Authorities have assured that they will pursue the case diligently. For now, two arrests mark the initial phase of legal action. Meanwhile, the investigation aims to bring all accused individuals to justice promptly.
