What began as an ordinary evening turned into a nightmare for a young woman in Kolkata after she was allegedly drugged and sexually assaulted by a man she thought she could trust. In a disturbing revelation, prosecutors have confirmed that the accused used a medicated inhaler as a tool to sedate the victim, allowing him to carry out the assault.
The survivor, a college student, had reportedly gone out with the accused, a man she had known and interacted with on social media. She had no reason to fear him. But according to the police and prosecution, he carried a modified inhaler laced with a sedative-like substance. Under the guise of helping her with breathing issues, he allegedly insisted she use the inhaler, after which she began to feel drowsy and disoriented.
Later, she woke up in an unfamiliar place, confused and violated. It was only after regaining her senses that she approached the authorities and filed a formal complaint. A medical examination confirmed her worst fears. What followed was a detailed investigation, revealing how the inhaler had been tampered with.
“This is not just a case of physical assault, it’s a calculated betrayal,” said one of the investigators. “He used a medical device — something meant to provide relief — as a weapon.”
The accused has been arrested and remains in judicial custody. If convicted, he could face severe punishment under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges of rape, criminal conspiracy, and administering intoxicating substances to facilitate an offence.
For the survivor, the road to recovery is long. She is currently receiving medical and psychological support. Activists and citizens across Kolkata have come together in outrage, demanding stricter checks on such misuse of medical items and faster justice for survivors.
“This case is a chilling reminder of how predators can hide in plain sight,” said a women’s rights activist at a protest march held in central Kolkata. “We owe it to every daughter of this city to ensure she feels safe, whether she’s walking home or simply trusting someone.”
As the investigation continues, the city watches — not just in anger, but in solidarity with the brave survivor who spoke up, despite the trauma.