New Delhi: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognizance of the horrific gang-rape of a 20-year-old college student at Gopalpur Beach in Ganjam district, Odisha, an incident that has sent shockwaves across the state and raised serious concerns about women’s safety in public spaces.
The heinous crime reportedly occurred on Sunday night when the student was with a male friend at an isolated spot on the popular tourist beach. A group of ten individuals allegedly assaulted her friend, tied him up, and then gang-raped the woman.
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has issued a strong directive to the Odisha Director General of Police (DGP), urging for the immediate arrest of any remaining accused and demanding a swift and time-bound investigation into the matter.
The Commission has also called for comprehensive medical and psychological assistance for the survivor, emphasizing the need for her well-being and recovery.
Furthermore, the NCW has urged authorities to ensure compensation for the survivor under Section 396 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) Act and has set a three-day deadline for an Action Taken Report from the state police.
Odisha Police have already made significant progress in the case, apprehending ten individuals, including four minors, in connection with the crime.
According to police reports, the accused were attempting to flee to another state when they were nabbed. Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M stated that while three individuals were directly involved in the rape, the remaining seven provided protection.
A special police team has been formed to further probe the case, and the police have indicated they will request the court to try the minors as adults due to the severity of the crime.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders and women’s rights activists. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida has spoken with the SP, ordering a thorough investigation and necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik termed the incident “deeply shocking” and questioned the safety of women in tourist destinations. Congress MLA Sofia Firdous expressed her dismay, calling it a “chilling reflection of the complete collapse of law and order.”
The medical examination of the survivor has been conducted, and she is reportedly receiving counseling. This incident marks the second reported gang rape in coastal Odisha within the past week, further intensifying calls for enhanced safety measures and stricter enforcement of law and order to protect citizens, especially women, in the state.