Image used for representation
| Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of the gang-rape of a 20-year-old college student at Gopalpur beach in Odisha.
In a letter addressed to the Odisha Director General of Police, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar called for the immediate arrest of all remaining accused, a time-bound investigation, and the provision of free medical and psychological support to the survivor. She further directed authorities to ensure that compensation is extended under Section 396 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and sought an action-taken report within three days.
The Odisha Police have so far arrested 10 persons, including four juveniles, in connection with the incident, which occurred on Sunday evening.
According to the police, the survivor and her male friend were seated in an isolated area behind the Panthnivas hotel around 8 p.m., when they were approached by a group of ten youths. The group allegedly overpowered the male friend and dragged the woman approximately 50 feet away. While five of the accused kept watch over the male friend, the remaining five allegedly overpowered the woman. Police said three of them raped her while the others stood guard.
Around 10 p.m., the accused allegedly released the couple after threatening them with dire consequences should they approach the authorities. Despite the threats, the survivor and her friend reached Gopalpur police station at approximately 11 p.m. and reported the assault.
The accused are reportedly residents of areas falling under the Purusottampur and Hinjili police limits. Following the registration of the FIR, the survivor underwent a medical examination and the statements of both her and her friend were recorded. A scientific team and senior officers visited the crime scene to collect forensic evidence.
The police have stated that they will move the Juvenile Justice Board to try the minors involved in the case as adults, citing the heinous nature of the crime.
Published – June 17, 2025 08:09 pm IST
