(Image source from: Sakshi.com)
In Odisha, a troubling string of five distinct rape cases has emerged over a span of just ten days. The latest incident took place in the Karanjai region of Mayurbhanj district. Reports from the police indicate that a young woman was reportedly the victim of a gang rape on June 25 while she was heading home after visiting a local temple. Initial findings suggest that three men intercepted her, forced her into a nearby forest, and assaulted her.
Authorities have apprehended one individual, identified as Bikash Patra from Malarpada village, while efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining two suspects. This incident adds to four other serious cases that have been reported since mid-June:
On June 17 near Gopalpur Beach in Ganjam District, ten men were arrested concerning the gang rape of a woman. She had gone to the beach with a male companion, who was allegedly overpowered and restrained while multiple perpetrators assaulted the woman. Currently, all ten suspects remain in police custody.
In Tentlapashi Village, Keonjhar District, on June 18, the body of a 17-year-old girl was found hanging from a tree in a nearby paddy field. Her family reported her missing the night before. The police confirmed that the body showed signs of injury. While investigations are still in progress, the family claims she was sexually assaulted prior to her death. A case has been filed, and inquiries into the matter are ongoing.
On June 19 in Baripada, Mayurbhanj District, the husband of a 31-year-old woman lodged a complaint at Baripada Sadar Police Station. He alleged that four acquaintances of the family entered their home in his absence and raped his wife. The police have registered the complaint and are currently exploring the allegations.
In a separate instance on June 25 in Berhampur, Ganjam District, a 17-year-old girl reported that she was raped by the owner of a local clinic. According to her statement, this individual had assured her family of aid in pursuing a BSc in Nursing and providing free lodging. Police have filed a case, and investigations are in progress.
The occurrence of these five reported incidents, particularly concentrated across Ganjam, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj, within such a brief timeframe has sparked significant public concern regarding the legislation and enforcement measures aimed at protecting women in Odisha.
"This situation brings immense sadness and disgrace. The increase in crimes against women within Odisha, particularly in the year following the establishment of the new government, is deeply troubling. It is shameful that, in light of such significant incidents, the government has neither shown remorse nor taken decisive action," stated Sofia Firdous, Congress MLA from Cuttack.
"The current situation regarding law and order in the state is quite dire. There seems to be no respect or fear for authority—neither the police nor the legal system instills any apprehension, as individuals continue to perpetrate crimes without consequence. Our government has not effectively addressed the actions of wrongdoers. If we fail to take decisive measures, what message are we sending to the public? What will inspire fear among the people?" she inquired. The Odisha Police have reported that arrests have been made in the cases of Gopalpur and Karanjai, with investigations underway for all related incidents.
