A tribal woman was allegedly gang-raped in Kawardha district of Chhattisgarh, following which police arrested two accused involved in the crime. Officials said the incident took place in the Chilfi police station area, where the victim was allegedly assaulted by two men known to her after returning from a social function late at night.

According to police officials, the woman had attended a ‘Chhathi’ programme at a relative’s house on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday. While she was returning home, the accused, who were reportedly known to her, allegedly offered her alcohol during the gathering. Investigators said the accused later took the woman towards a forested area located between Ranidahara and Saroda Dadar, where they allegedly raped her one after another before fleeing from the spot.

Police sources stated that the victim was left unconscious after the incident. Despite her condition, she managed to reach the police station and lodged a complaint regarding the assault. Following the complaint, teams from Chilfi police station and the women police unit initiated immediate action and shifted the victim for medical examination and treatment at a nearby health facility.

Officials confirmed that the medical examination supported allegations of sexual assault. Based on the victim’s statement and preliminary evidence collected during the investigation, police registered a case and launched a search operation to identify the accused.

Investigators said the accused were traced using descriptions provided by the victim and statements from local witnesses. Police later detained two suspects and took them into custody for questioning. During interrogation, the accused allegedly admitted to their involvement in the crime. Authorities said further legal action is being taken under relevant sections related to gang rape and sexual assault.

Police officials stated that forensic and additional evidence collection is underway as part of the investigation. Authorities are also examining whether the accused had planned the assault in advance or acted opportunistically after the social programme. Officials have not yet disclosed the identities of the accused considering the sensitivity of the matter and legal provisions related to sexual offence cases.

The incident has triggered concern in the region over women’s safety, particularly in rural and tribal areas where access to immediate assistance and transport facilities often remains limited during late-night hours. Local residents have demanded strict punishment for the accused and enhanced security measures in isolated routes connecting villages.

Police officials assured that the case is being treated seriously and that all procedural steps are being followed to ensure a fair and speedy investigation. Senior officers are reportedly monitoring the case closely. Authorities also appealed to citizens to immediately report crimes against women and cooperate with investigations to help ensure swift action.

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