Bhubaneswar, Dec 16 (NationPress) Naveen Patnaik, President of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Leader of the Opposition, has voiced his profound concern over the purported gang rape of a minor in Bhubaneswar. He described this incident as deeply troubling and indicative of escalating brutality and lawlessness in the capital city.

In a post shared on social media, Patnaik criticized the growing fearlessness among criminals while the government's credibility diminishes.

He posed a poignant question regarding the extent to which the law-and-order situation must decline before the government takes action. “The gang rape of a minor, occurring right in Bhubaneswar, is a deeply distressing matter. Barbarism and anarchy have surpassed acceptable limits; the state capital is becoming perilous. Criminals are operating without fear… the government is losing its credibility. How much further will law and order deteriorate before the government awakens?” Patnaik expressed on his X handle.

He pointed out that the government's inability to combat crime is instilling fear among the populace, stating that the BJP government’s failure to provide a secure environment for women in the capital highlights its incompetence and lack of sensitivity.

“The government's incapacity to prevent crime is creating a climate of fear among the citizens. The BJP government’s failure to guarantee a safe environment for women reveals its gross incompetence and lack of empathy. The government must implement stringent measures to counter criminal activities against women. Action should be proactive and preventive, rather than reactive after crimes have occurred,” he added.

In a related development, the Commissionerate Police arrested two individuals accused of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl at a secluded area along the Daya River, under the jurisdiction of the Dhauli Police station. The incident transpired when the girl and her boyfriend were returning home from Dhauli on December 10. The assailants reportedly demanded money from the couple and, upon refusal, proceeded to sexually assault the victim.

Additionally, Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, while addressing the media, assured that the government would take decisive action in the Dhauli gang-rape case and is considering fast-track court proceedings to ensure swift justice.

He emphasized that the BJP-led government is committed to delivering justice in criminal cases, particularly those involving crimes against women, and reiterated that strict measures will be enforced in this case.