Indian gang rape survivor returns home after week long hospital treatment

A 26 year old woman in India has returned home after spending a week in hospital following a brutal gang rape that left her with serious injuries, police and family members said. The woman, a mother of two, was discharged late Monday night after undergoing multiple treatments and surgeries for head and facial injuries as well as several fractures.

The attack took place in the early hours of December 30 in the northern city of Faridabad, located near the capital New Delhi. According to her sister, the woman had gone out to visit a friend and was waiting for transport shortly after midnight when two men approached her in an ambulance and offered her a lift. Believing the vehicle to be safe, she accepted the offer.

Instead of taking her to her destination, the men allegedly drove to a deserted area where they raped her. After the assault, they reportedly pushed her out of the moving vehicle, leaving her severely injured on the roadside. She was later found and rushed to hospital, where doctors confirmed multiple fractures and significant trauma to her head and face.

Hospital officials said the woman required intensive care and surgical intervention during her stay. Medical teams treated fractures, managed internal injuries and monitored her condition closely over several days. Doctors said her discharge followed clear signs of physical stabilisation, though she is expected to require continued follow up care and psychological support.

Police said they acted swiftly after receiving information about the incident. A spokesperson for the local police force confirmed that two suspects had been arrested and the ambulance used in the crime had been seized. Investigators are examining how the vehicle was obtained and whether it had been used previously for legitimate medical purposes or criminal activity.

Authorities said the suspects are being questioned and will be charged under multiple sections of Indian law, including rape, causing grievous harm and criminal conspiracy. Police added that they are also reviewing surveillance footage and phone records to strengthen the case before it proceeds to court.

The attack has sparked renewed outrage and concern over women’s safety in India, particularly during late night travel. Women’s rights groups have highlighted the dangers posed by criminals impersonating emergency or public service workers, calling for stricter monitoring of vehicles such as ambulances and taxis.

Local activists say the case reflects broader systemic issues, including gaps in public transport safety and the need for stronger deterrence. They have urged authorities to ensure fast track prosecution and to provide long term support for survivors, including counselling and financial assistance.

The woman’s family said they were relieved she was home but remain deeply traumatised by what happened. Her sister said the family is focused on her recovery and is cooperating fully with investigators to ensure justice is served.

Government officials have condemned the attack and reiterated commitments to improve safety measures for women. However, critics argue that repeated incidents show a gap between policy promises and real world protection.

As the survivor begins the long process of recovery, the case has once again brought national attention to the risks faced by women and the urgent need for sustained action to address gender based violence.