Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari on Thursday condemned the alleged gang-rape of a tribal woman in West Bengal's Birbhum District, and asked the state government to ensure that the perpetrators are given the strictest punishment possible.
"This is absolutely inhumane, and it is completely outrageous. In a democratic country, based on the rule of law, no vigilantism can be permitted. The West Bengal Government must immediately arrest the accused and ensure that they are given the strictest punishment possible," he said.
A 20-year-old tribal woman was allegedly gang-raped on Monday night on the order of the village court presided by village head, who decided to punish the girl for having an affair with a boy from a different community.
She was admitted to the Labhpur primary health centre but was later transferred to Siuri hospital.
The parents of the victim filed a complaint with the Labhpur police station, and so far five people have been arrested.
