Gopalpur Gangrape: Crime Branch Takes Over Probe; 10 Arrested, NCW Seeks Swift Action
State orders red-flag investigation; CM, NCW and opposition demand justice and security reforms
Bhubaneswar : A day after a 20-year-old college student was gang-raped at Gopalpur beach, the Odisha government ordered a Crime Branch probe under the Crime Against Women and Children Wing (CAW\&CW). Berhampur police arrested all 10 accused, including four juveniles.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi condemned the act as “a crime against humanity” and promised exemplary action. The National Commission for Women (NCW) demanded a report within three days, calling for free medical and psychological care for the survivor.
The brutal assault occurred on Sunday evening when the victim and her male friend visited the beach during the Raja festival. Three prime accused—Pramod Nayak, Baburam Dalei, and Kunal Pradhan—allegedly raped the victim while others restrained her companion.
DGP YB Khurania assigned the red-flagged case to CAW\&CW, with IG S Shyni supervising. Police confirmed the survivor’s condition is stable and a chargesheet will be filed soon.
Political backlash followed, with Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik and BJD leaders demanding action and better beach security. Deputy CM Pravati Parida assured strict measures and a full investigation, urging preventive steps to ensure such crimes don’t recur.
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