Odisha CM Slams Gopalpur Gang-Rape, 10 Held

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday strongly denounced the gang-rape of a 20-year-old college student at Gopalpur beach in Ganjam district, calling it a “crime against humanity.” He assured strict and exemplary punishment for all involved, stating, “No accused will escape the clutches of the law.”

According to the Chief Minister’s Office, the arrest of ten individuals in connection with the incident was made following a directive issued by the CM himself. “Anyone directly or indirectly involved in this horrific crime will be brought to justice,” Majhi emphasized.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) also took suo motu cognizance of the case. Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has sought an action taken report from the Odisha government within three days and written to DGP Y.B. Khurania, urging prompt arrests and a time-bound investigation.

The Commission has demanded free medical and psychological assistance for the survivor, along with appropriate compensation under Section 396 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) Act.

The crime occurred on the evening of June 15 when the survivor, a Plus III student from Berhampur, visited Gopalpur beach with a male friend. Around 6:30 PM, the pair reached an isolated area behind the Panthanivas hotel, where a group of young men was seated nearby.

At approximately 8 PM, the group—reportedly comprising 10 individuals—approached the couple. The assailants overpowered the male friend and forcibly dragged the young woman about 50 feet away. While five members of the group restrained her friend, the remaining accused allegedly took turns sexually assaulting her, while others stood guard.

The perpetrators threatened the couple with dire consequences if they reported the crime and fled the scene around 10 PM. The survivor and her friend reached Gopalpur police station by 11 PM and filed a formal complaint.

Gopalpur police quickly registered an FIR and formed a special investigation team. Seven suspects were detained initially, with three additional teams deployed to track down the remaining accused.

So far, ten individuals have been arrested, including Pramod Nayak, Baburam Dalai, Kunal Pradhan, Om Pradhan, Lakman Pradhan, and Deepak Tarai. Four juveniles—reportedly from the Hinjili area—have also been taken into custody.

The case has been registered under Sections 70(1), 296, 351(3), and 310(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

The investigation is ongoing, and the State Government has assured the public of a transparent and uncompromising pursuit of justice.