Horrific Gang-Rape at Gopalpur Beach in Odisha : 20-Year-Old Student, Friend Tied Up; 8 Detained
A 20-year-old college student was brutally gang-raped near Gopalpur beach in Odisha’s Ganjam district on Sunday evening after her male friend was tied up by the assailants. The victim’s ordeal, which lasted over two hours, sent shockwaves through the state. Eight men have been arrested, while police continue the hunt for additional suspects.
According to the FIR, the two friends had visited the beach around 6:30 pm to celebrate the Raja festival when a group of about 10 men on three motorcycles surrounded them. The assailants took photos, threatened to circulate them, then brutally overpowered the friend and dragged the woman to a nearby abandoned house, where she was gang-raped by three of the accused ﹣ who took turns ﹣ while the rest detained her friend.
Berhampur Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M told reporters that eight adults have been detained and are under interrogation, while police launched a special operation to apprehend the remaining perpetrators. Medical examinations for both the survivor and accused have been arranged; the survivor is stable.
The survivor bravely visited the Gopalpur police station late Sunday night to lodge her complaint. Police have registered a case under Section 70(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to gang rape. The accused are reportedly from Hinjilicut and have been in custody since Monday.
This disturbing incident underscores broader concerns about public safety and inadequate patrolling at tourist hotspots. Ganjam district has seen similar tragedies in recent weeks, including the abduction and rape of two minors in June. Lokals are demanding stricter enforcement and better protection measures for women.
Activists and social media users have expressed outrage, calling for swift justice. #JusticeForSurvivor trended briefly on X, with many urging authorities for expedited trial and victim support. Law enforcement assured the public that the investigation remains top priority and all accused will be produced before the court promptly.
