What Shocking Events Are Unfolding in Odisha?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Two recent rape incidents in Odisha highlight the urgent need for action against sexual violence.
- Immediate police response shows commitment to address such crimes.
- Victims often suffer in silence; awareness and support are critical.
- Community involvement is essential to prevent future incidents.
- Legal frameworks need strengthening to ensure justice for victims.
Bhubaneswar, July 22 (NationPress) In light of the escalating conversation surrounding the increase in violence against women, two alarming instances of sexual assault have emerged from the Jajpur and Jagatsinghpur districts, sending shockwaves throughout Odisha.
In a deeply troubling event, Jagatsinghpur police apprehended an individual on Tuesday for allegedly raping an 18-year-old girl within the jurisdiction of Jagatsinghpur Town police station. Authorities have initiated a search for another suspect who remains at large.
“My daughter had gone to a friend's home for a birthday celebration. Another girl present there urged her to visit her nearby residence. After some hesitation, my daughter consented. Later, she wanted to return to the main road, but the girl led her through paddy fields instead. Suddenly, two unidentified men approached, seized her from behind, and covered her mouth, subsequently sexually assaulting her,” disclosed the victim's father.
He added that the victim lost consciousness upon reaching home after the traumatic event, which occurred late Monday evening.
She was subsequently taken to the Jagatsinghpur District Headquarters Hospital, where she is currently receiving medical attention.
According to Jagatsinghpur Superintendent of Police, Bhawani Sankar Udgata, the victim's father has accused two unknown assailants of sexually abusing his daughter. The police have launched an investigation, forming three dedicated teams.
The SP confirmed that the fleeing suspect has been identified and will be captured shortly.
In another distressing occurrence, Jajpur police arrested three hockey coaches on Tuesday, including two former trainers, for allegedly raping a 15-year-old girl who plays hockey in the district.
As reported, the victim filed a complaint at the Jajpur police station on July 20. During their investigation, authorities learned that Sandip Swain, currently coaching at the Hockey Training Centre in Jajpur, along with former coaches Sagar Nayak and Sarthak Mohanty, were implicated in the crime.
Police revealed that the accused, Sandip, assaulted the minor during a sports tour to Rourkela approximately two months ago.
Despite the victim filing a formal complaint with the District Sports Officer of Jajapur, no action had been reportedly taken.
On July 3, the other two accused, Sagar and Sarthak, lured the girl under the guise of giving her a gift. They forcibly took her to a lodge where they sexually misbehaved with her. Fortunately, lodge staff intervened after hearing her cries for help and rescued her from the assailants.