What Actions is NHRC Taking Regarding the Gang-Rape Incident in Odisha?
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Synopsis
The NHRC has intervened in a shocking case of gang rape involving a college student at Gopalpur beach. With reports highlighting serious human rights violations, the commission demands accountability from state officials. Discover the implications of this case and the ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways
- NHRC takes immediate action on gang rape reports.
- Odisha officials required to report on the incident.
- Victim's health and support are priorities.
- NCW demands swift justice and support.
- Local police successfully apprehended suspects.
Bhubaneswar, June 23 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance on Monday regarding alarming media reports about the gang rape of a 20-year-old college student at Gopalpur beach in Ganjam district. The commission has demanded that the Chief Secretary of Odisha and the DGP of Odisha Police provide comprehensive reports within two weeks.
The NHRC has indicated that if the media reports are accurate, they highlight a grave breach of human rights.
“The NHRC takes suo motu cognisance of the reported gang rape of a female college student on the Gopalpur sea beach of Ganjam District in Odisha. Issues notices to the state Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, calling for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks,” the NHRC stated on its social media platform on Monday.
Additionally, the report is anticipated to cover the status of the investigation, the victim’s health status, and any compensation or counseling provided to her.
Prior to this, the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), Vijaya Rahatkar, had also taken suo motu cognisance of the incident on June 17, urging the DGP of Odisha Police to swiftly apprehend all remaining suspects, ensure a timely investigation, and provide free medical and psychological support to the victim.
The NCW Chairperson has requested an action taken report on the gang rape case within three days. Notably, on June 15, the victim, a 20-year-old student from a Berhampur college, along with her classmate and male friend, visited Gopalpur beach and ended up in a secluded area behind a hotel in the evening.
A group of 10 assailants attacked the couple, overpowering the male friend.
Subsequently, they took the woman to a nearby location on the beach where three of the assailants raped her while seven others restrained both the male friend and the woman.
Following the victim's complaint, local police swiftly arrested all suspects, including four juveniles, conducting multiple raids within hours of the crime.
Point of View
This incident underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms in the protection of women's rights across the country. It is imperative that law enforcement agencies not only respond swiftly but also ensure that justice prevails to restore public trust.
NationPress
23/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What has the NHRC done regarding the gang-rape case?
The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident, requesting detailed reports from the Odisha Chief Secretary and DGP within two weeks.
What actions were taken by the National Commission for Women?
The NCW Chairperson directed immediate arrests of all suspects and demanded free medical and psychological support for the victim.
What is the current status of the investigation?
Local police have arrested all suspects, including four juveniles, shortly after the crime was reported.
What support is being offered to the victim?
The NHRC expects the report to include information on the victim's health condition and any assistance provided to her.
Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred at Gopalpur beach in Ganjam district, Odisha.
