Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President and Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, Naveen Patnaik, on Tuesday, 19 May launched a sharp attack on the state government over deteriorating law and order following the brutal public assault on a young couple in Berhampur. Patnaik alleged that Odisha is descending into anarchy, characterising the situation as 'goonda raj' — rule of hooligans — rather than governance by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The Berhampur Assault

The incident took place on Monday evening near an eatery on Giri Road, Berhampur, when a youth identified as Umesh Rath and his female companion were allegedly set upon by a group of miscreants over a past enmity. According to reports, Rath was beaten mercilessly, and his female friend sustained injuries while attempting to intervene. A video of the assault spread rapidly online, drawing widespread outrage and fresh scrutiny of the state's law and order machinery.

What Patnaik Said

Posting on his X handle, Patnaik described the assault on the young man and woman as 'utterly inhuman,' stating that the attack had 'terrified and disturbed people across Odisha.' He questioned the state's police administration directly, writing: 'It seems that the BJP government has surrendered Odisha into the hands of criminals. The criminals are carrying out barbaric acts without any fear. Where is the police administration? Where is the rule of law? How much more will the BJP government endanger the safety of ordinary people by being engrossed in celebrations and festivities?'

Patnaik further argued that a government cannot function on hollow claims alone, and demanded that the BJP-led administration immediately take 'the strictest possible action' against those responsible. He also called on the government to stop shielding criminals involved in heinous crimes, warning that the state's reputation is suffering nationally.

Political Context

The attack and the opposition's response come at a sensitive moment for the BJP government in Odisha, which swept to power in 2024, ending Naveen Patnaik's nearly 24-year-long tenure as Chief Minister. Since then, the BJD — now in opposition for the first time in over two decades — has sought to hold the ruling party accountable on governance issues, with law and order emerging as a recurring flashpoint. This is not the first time Patnaik has raised concerns about public safety incidents in the state since the change of guard.

What Happens Next

As of Tuesday, there was no immediate official response from the Odisha government or BJP leadership addressing Patnaik's allegations. Authorities in Berhampur are reportedly investigating the assault. The viral nature of the video is expected to sustain public pressure on the administration to act swiftly and visibly against those accused in the attack.