"A group of drunken men attacked a woman and her friend on Jessore Road while a protest over a local blockade was underway," a police spokesperson said. The assailants allegedly forced the woman into a sexual assault before beating her companion.
The protest, organized by residents to demand the removal of a temporary road block, had been largely peaceful until the attackers entered the crowd. Witnesses reported that the men were visibly intoxicated and had previously gathered near the protest.
By 16:30 hrs police secured the area, detained the attackers and began a formal inquiry. Victims were transported to the nearest hospital for treatment.
"Such incidents are unacceptable and will be dealt with strictly," the police officer added, noting that charges would be filed under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.
