Kolkata, October 16, 2025 — The West Bengal government has appointed Bibhas Chatterjee as the special public prosecutor to lead the prosecution in the high-profile gang rape case of a 23-year-old medical student in Durgapur. The incident occurred on October 10 in a forested area near the survivor’s college, sparking widespread outrage and attention across the state.

Chatterjee Meets Investigating Officers

On Thursday, Chatterjee held a detailed meeting with officers from the Asansol-Durgapur police commissionerate for more than three hours to discuss the ongoing investigation and prosecution strategy. He assured authorities that he would provide all necessary legal support and resources to ensure a swift and effective prosecution.

“How fast the prosecution can file the chargesheet depends on the investigators. I will help them with all my resources,” Chatterjee told Hindustan Times. He is known for relying heavily on scientific and forensic evidence in multiple high-profile rape and murder cases, ensuring convictions in several past cases.

Arrests and Investigation

So far, six individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. Among them is the survivor’s classmate, who was taken into custody on October 14, just hours after a magistrate recorded the victim’s statement. The remaining five are local villagers who were apprehended earlier.

Police investigations indicate that the survivor, a resident of Jaleshwar in Odisha, had gone out for dinner on October 10 with her classmate, who resides in Kaliachak in Bengal’s Malda district. Security camera footage from the college recorded the classmate returning alone at 8:42 pm, leaving again at 8:48 pm, and both individuals returning together at 9:29 pm. These timestamps are expected to play a crucial role in the chargesheet.

The victim is currently admitted at the private IQ City Medical College Hospital, where she studies. Authorities have stated that they are prioritizing the case and taking all necessary steps to ensure justice is served.

Role of the Special Public Prosecutor

As the special public prosecutor, Bibhas Chatterjee will coordinate closely with the police to oversee the preparation and filing of the chargesheet, ensuring that all evidence, including digital and forensic proof, is properly compiled. His involvement is expected to expedite legal proceedings, which is crucial in high-profile cases with multiple accused.

Chatterjee’s appointment underscores the state government’s commitment to ensuring a robust legal response in cases of sexual assault, emphasizing scientific evidence, thorough investigation, and a meticulous prosecution strategy.