Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 20: The Congress on Saturday strongly condemned the alleged gang-rape and brutal assault of a woman in Bihar's Begusarai district, describing the incident as deeply disturbing and accusing the state government of failing to maintain law and order.

Speaking to reporters, Congress MP Manoj Kumar said the crime reflected a complete collapse of governance and alleged that criminals were operating without fear in the state.

“The incident is extremely shameful and unfortunate. The Bihar government and the administration have failed completely. While authorities continue to make promises, the confidence of criminals appears to be growing,” he said.

Questioning accountability, Kumar asked who would take responsibility for what he described as an inhuman act.

Referring to reports related to the case, he said the woman had reportedly approached the police seeking protection before the incident but remained vulnerable.

“She was helpless. The accused subjected her to horrific cruelty. Her hands were restrained and she was brutally assaulted,” he said.

The Congress leader further alleged that crimes against women were becoming increasingly frequent in Bihar and said the brutality in this case had crossed all limits.

“Incidents involving crimes against women are being reported almost every day. However, the level of violence in this case is beyond barbarity,” he added.

Kumar also questioned the silence of those who publicly advocate for women's rights and referred to previous debates surrounding the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament.

“A few months ago, there were extensive discussions about women's representation and empowerment. Today, the question is who is in power in Bihar and what concrete steps are being taken to ensure women's safety,” he said.

Meanwhile, the investigation into the case has intensified, with senior police officials closely monitoring developments.

The incident, which allegedly took place on the night of June 11 within the jurisdiction of Chakia police station, drew nationwide attention after reports surfaced that a cartridge, a piece of wood and a stone were recovered during the victim's medical treatment.

According to police, the 30-year-old woman had stepped out of her house to use a toilet when she was allegedly intercepted by five men, forcibly taken to a secluded spot, restrained and sexually assaulted.

Authorities have registered an FIR and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to identify and arrest those responsible.

Shailesh Kumar Sinha visited the victim at the district hospital, met her family members and reviewed the progress of the investigation with local officials.

He also held discussions with doctors, including the Civil Surgeon, and sought a detailed update on the victim's treatment and medical examination.

In a significant administrative action, Chakia police station officer-in-charge Rajiv Ranjan has been suspended over alleged negligence in handling the case.

Police said preliminary findings indicated lapses in the initial response, prompting disciplinary action.

Officials added that a fresh medical examination has been conducted by a medical board, and investigators are awaiting the final report, which is expected to play a crucial role in determining the next course of action.

The victim's family has also alleged that local police failed to act promptly when they initially attempted to lodge a complaint.

Authorities have assured that all those involved will be identified, arrested and prosecuted, while senior officers continue to supervise the investigation.