Woman, daughter gang raped in India

A woman and her teenaged daughter were gang raped by a group of men in northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, officials said Sunday.

The duo was reportedly dragged out of their car on Friday in Bulandshahr district of Uttar Pradesh, about 83 km east of New Delhi, India's national capital city.

The woman and her 14-year-old daughter were travelling along with four members of their family in a car, which was stopped by the group and forcibly taken to an isolated place near Dostpur village.

"The gang members tied male members with ropes and subjected woman and her 14-year old daughter to gang rape," a police official said. "They also looted their cash, jewellery and mobile phones."

Local media reports said the family was left stranded on the deserted stretch until Saturday morning.

According to police officials, the family reported the matter to police on Saturday morning.

The incident has created panic in the area. Police registered a case and initiated investigations to nab the robbers. Police Chief of Uttar Pradesh Javeed Ahmad has described the incident as "horrible" and a "challenge" for police.

"Going all out to nab the culprits," Ahmad said. "All resources being deployed and useful leads being pursued."

Reports said police teams have detained 15 suspects for questioning.

In Dec. 2002, a fatal gang-rape of a medical student in New Delhi brought spotlight on crimes against women in India.

The incident saw huge protests and resulted in new anti-rape laws in the country. However, brutal sexual attacks against women continue to be reported across India. Endit