What Happened in the Odisha College Student Gang-Rape Case?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident, six individuals have been arrested and four minors detained in Odisha following the gang-rape of a college student at Gopalpur beach. This heinous crime has raised serious concerns about safety measures in public spaces, prompting police action and community outrage.
Key Takeaways
- Six suspects arrested in connection with gang-rape case.
- Four minors detained, raising concerns about juvenile involvement.
- Police are increasing patrols at Gopalpur beach.
- Victim reported incident to authorities promptly.
- Legal proceedings are underway under applicable laws.
Bhubaneswar, June 17 (NationPress) The Berhampur Police have apprehended six individuals and detained four minors in relation to the shocking gang-rape of a college student at the renowned Gopalpur beach in Odisha on Sunday evening, as reported by Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M on Tuesday.
The six suspects identified include Pramod Nayak, 23, from the Purushottampur area; Kunal Pradhan, 24, from Bellagam Police jurisdiction; along with Baburam Dalai, 19; Lakman Pradhan, 24; Om Pradhan, 19; and Deepak Tarai from the Hinjili police station area.
All minors detained in this case are residents of Sikiri village within Hinjili Police limits.
The main perpetrator, Pramod, a B.Tech dropout currently employed at an electronics factory in Bengaluru, had returned home on leave. He has a history of involvement in two other criminal cases.
Superintendent Vivek further disclosed that on June 15, the 20-year-old victim, a +3 student from a Berhampur college, along with her classmate, visited Gopalpur beach around 6:30 PM to celebrate the Raja festival, reaching an area behind a hotel located on the beach.
They noticed the group of men situated approximately 50 meters away from them.
“At about 8 PM, the group of men approached the couple, overpowered the male companion, and forcefully dragged the woman approximately 50 feet away. Three of the suspects (Pramod, Baburam, and Kunal) assaulted the woman while others restrained the man and woman,” said the Berhampur SP.
“They released the couple around 10 PM,” added the Berhampur SP.
During their escape, the assailants threatened the victims with severe consequences if they reported the gang-rape to the police.
The accused also extorted money from both the victim and her companion.
Subsequently, the victim and her friend arrived at the Gopalpur police station around 11 PM that night to report the incident.
The IIC of Gopalpur Police station and his team promptly formed a unit and detained seven suspects for questioning.
Three additional teams were later established to locate and apprehend the remaining suspects.
Following the victim's complaint, a case has been filed under Sections 70(1), 296, 351(3), and 310(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Saravana Vivek emphasized that the Odisha police will undertake all necessary actions to ensure the rapists face the maximum legal punishment following their trial.
“Considering that all minors involved are aged 17 and this is a case of a heinous nature, we will request the Juvenile Justice Board to treat these minors as adults during the trial,” further stated the SP.
In response to concerns regarding inadequate security at Gopalpur beach, the Berhampur SP reassured that police presence will be intensified in the area and urged district administration to enhance solar lighting and other facilities to ensure tourist safety on the beach.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the alarming increase in violence against women, particularly in public spaces like beaches. This tragic incident in Odisha serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved safety measures and community vigilance to prevent such heinous acts. Our commitment to reporting these incidents will continue, ensuring that victims are heard and justice is sought.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures are being taken to improve safety at Gopalpur beach?
Authorities have pledged to increase police patrols and enhance lighting and amenities to ensure the safety of tourists and prevent future incidents.
What are the legal consequences for the accused?
The accused face serious charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, with efforts being made to treat juveniles as adults due to the nature of the crime.
How can the community help prevent such incidents?
Community vigilance, awareness campaigns, and collaboration with local law enforcement can help create safer public spaces for everyone.
