Gave inhaler, then dragged me to guard room': Kolkata gangrape survivor recounts moments before assault

Kolkata | July 1, 2025 — In a chilling recount of the events that unfolded on the night of June 27, a 24-year-old woman from Kolkata has come forward with a harrowing statement detailing her gangrape inside a residential complex in the New Town area. Her testimony, recorded before the investigating team, not only sheds light on the incident but also raises urgent concerns about residential security, urban safety measures, and the need for swift legal action.

Chronology of the Incident

According to the survivor, the assault took place inside the guard room of the housing complex where she was allegedly lured by one of the security personnel after she complained of breathing difficulties. “He offered me an inhaler,” she told police officials, “but as I was trying to use it, he signaled to others, and they dragged me inside the guard room.”

The woman, who had visited a friend residing in the complex, said she stepped out briefly to make a phone call when she began to feel breathless. Taking advantage of her vulnerable condition, the guards reportedly offered help and then overpowered her. Initial investigations confirm that three men have been arrested in connection with the case.

Police Investigation Underway

The Bidhannagar Police, who are handling the case, stated that the survivor's medical examination corroborates the allegations. “We have taken the accused into custody and initiated forensic investigations. CCTV footage is being retrieved and analyzed,” said Additional Commissioner of Police, Kunal Agarwal.

The three accused have been booked under Section 376D (gangrape) and other relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to expedite the probe.

“We’re also investigating if there were lapses in the housing society's background checks and hiring process for security guards,” said Agarwal.

Survivor’s Courage: A Public Testimony Sparks Outrage

The survivor’s willingness to recount the traumatic ordeal publicly has sparked widespread outrage across the city. Speaking to a local Bengali news outlet under anonymity, she said, “I kept screaming, but no one came. I was threatened with death if I spoke. But I knew I had to.”

Her statement has led to protests outside the housing complex by women’s rights organizations demanding systemic reforms and justice.

Civic Response and Accountability Demands

Local MLA Tapas Roy has urged the Housing and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO) to issue mandatory safety protocols across private residential buildings. “This is not just about one incident. This is about a culture of impunity for men who think they can get away with this,” he said during a press briefing.

West Bengal Women’s Commission Chairperson Leena Ganguly condemned the incident and said, “This heinous crime is a reminder that no space is truly safe for women. We will ensure that psychological counseling and legal support are provided to the survivor.”

Market & Policy Impact: Residential Sector Under Scrutiny

Though unrelated to financial metrics directly, the incident is likely to have a reputational impact on real estate management companies and housing societies in urban centers. Experts argue that housing complexes must now prioritize resident security protocols and gender-sensitive hiring practices.

“Builders and property management firms can no longer view security staffing as a low-priority cost center,” said Pratik Basu, a real estate analyst at Knight Frank India. “This case will bring renewed focus on automated access control, background verification services, and tenant protection infrastructure.”

Several residential societies in New Town and Salt Lake areas are already revisiting their internal guidelines. HIDCO has reportedly called for an emergency meeting with society associations to discuss preventive mechanisms.

Legal Experts: Fast-Tracking Justice Critical

Senior advocate Meenakshi Bhattacharya stated, “Gangrape cases must be fast-tracked with both dignity and speed. Victims often face additional trauma during prolonged trials. If this case is handled swiftly and sensitively, it could become a landmark for women’s safety in urban India.”

She added that recent amendments to the criminal law allow for courts to take cognizance within 30 days and finish trial within 60 days of chargesheet filing in rape cases.

Public Sentiment and Political Fallout

The case has triggered a firestorm on social media, with hashtags like #JusticeForKolkataSurvivor and #SafeCityForWomen trending. Opposition parties have demanded the resignation of the Housing Minister and slammed the state government for its failure to ensure urban security.

“We are calling for a judicial probe,” said BJP spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya. “The state is failing its daughters repeatedly.”

TMC leaders, while condemning the attack, urged all parties not to politicize the matter. “This is a time for united action and victim support, not political one-upmanship,” said party MP Nusrat Jahan.

Investor Outlook: Security as a Growing Sector

While the real estate and residential security sector is unlikely to see a market impact in the short term, investors are watching the trend of smart security systems with renewed interest. Companies offering AI-based surveillance, biometric access, and personnel tracking solutions are expected to see a rise in adoption.

“This could be a turning point for the adoption of tech-based residential security,” said Ketan Shah, a fund manager with Axis Mutual Fund. “Consumer expectations will now shift from physical manpower to smart monitoring tools, and investors will look to capitalize on this behavioral change.”

A Wake-Up Call for Urban India

The Kolkata gangrape case has shaken the conscience of the city and placed urgent focus on women’s safety, particularly within seemingly secure private spaces. As investigations continue, the survivor’s brave recounting serves as both a rallying cry and a stark reminder that the journey toward a truly safe society is far from over.