Will Odisha CM Ensure Justice in College Student's Gang Rape Case?
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Synopsis
The recent gang rape of a 20-year-old college student at Gopalpur beach has sparked outrage in Odisha. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has promised stringent action against the culprits, while opposition leaders demand improved safety for women. The incident highlights rising concerns about women's security in tourist areas.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha CM condemns gang rape incident.
- Assured harsh punishment for offenders.
- 10 suspects arrested, including juveniles.
- Opposition demands better women's safety measures.
- NCW calls for swift investigation and support for the victim.
Bhubaneswar, June 17 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, vehemently denounced the appalling incident involving the gang rape of a 20-year-old college student at Gopalpur beach in the Ganjam district.
Majhi has pledged that exemplary actions will be taken against all individuals implicated in this heinous crime, labeling it as a serious violation of humanity.
The Chief Minister reassured that none of the perpetrators will evade justice, emphasizing that they will face the most severe penalties as per the law.
Following his directives, the local police swiftly apprehended 10 suspects. Majhi reiterated that anyone associated with the incident, directly or indirectly, will be captured, and stringent measures will be enforced against them.
The state administration faced criticism after this disgraceful incident surfaced on Monday. The primary opposition party in Odisha, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), issued a strong rebuke against the government concerning this matter.
Expressing his condemnation, former Chief Minister and BJD leader, Naveen Patnaik, took to X on Tuesday to state: “The reports about the gang rape at Gopalpur beach, a prominent tourist spot in Odisha, are deeply unsettling and have profoundly disturbed everyone. I unequivocally condemn this abominable act.”
He further noted that the Gopalpur gang rape incident raises significant concerns regarding the safety of women at tourist destinations throughout the state.
The government must remain vigilant to curtail the increasing instances of violence against women and implement decisive actions to guarantee their safety,” Patnaik remarked.
Additionally, the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), Vijaya Rahatkar, took suo motu cognizance of the incident and directed the DGP of Odisha Police to promptly apprehend all remaining suspects and initiate a swift, time-sensitive investigation, alongside providing essential medical and psychological support to the victim. A report on the actions taken in relation to the gang rape case is expected within three days.
In the meantime, following the orders of Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, the Odisha DGP, the Crime Against Women and Children Wing of the state Crime Branch has assumed control over the investigation.
“This case is classified as a Red Flag, with the investigation being conducted under the direct oversight of the IG of Police, CAW&CW Shyni S,” stated the Odisha Police.
On Tuesday, the Berhampur police apprehended all ten accused individuals, including four juveniles named in the FIR filed by the victim.
According to police reports, the accused overpowered the victim and her boyfriend on Sunday evening at Gopalpur beach, subsequently leading to the gang rape of the victim.
Point of View
Especially in tourist areas. The government's swift response is commendable, but it raises broader questions about systemic failures that allow such atrocities to occur. Ensuring justice for the victim and preventing future incidents must be a national priority.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions is the Odisha government taking regarding the gang rape case?
The Odisha government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has pledged to take exemplary actions against all accused, ensuring that they receive the harshest possible punishment under the law.
How many suspects have been arrested in the gang rape case?
As of now, local police have arrested 10 individuals, including four juveniles, in connection with the gang rape incident at Gopalpur beach.
What has been the reaction of the opposition party in Odisha?
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has criticized the state government following the incident, demanding stronger measures to ensure the safety of women in the state.
What steps has the National Commission for Women taken regarding this case?
The Chairperson of the National Commission for Women has directed the Odisha Police to arrest all remaining suspects and conduct a swift investigation while providing necessary support to the victim.
What are the broader implications of this incident?
This incident raises significant concerns about women's security in public spaces, especially in tourist areas, and highlights the need for systemic changes to prevent such crimes.
