Student Gangraped on Odisha Beach, Boyfriend Tied Up; CID to Probe 10 Suspects

A 20-year-old college student was gangraped on Gopalpur beach in Odisha’s Ganjam district, while her boyfriend was restrained by assailants. The incident, occurring during the Raja festival, involved 10 suspects, including four minors, who allegedly targeted the couple in a secluded area near Panthanivas resort. The survivor’s courage in filing a complaint at Gopalpur police station by 11:00 PM led to swift arrests. The case, now under the Crime Investigation Department (CID), has sparked outrage and raised questions about safety at Odisha’s popular tourist destinations.

Student Gangraped on Odisha Beach

The couple, both students at a private college in Ganjam, had visited the beach to celebrate the festival. According to the survivor’s FIR, a group of 10 men, aged 16 to 23, approached them around 8:30 PM, taking photos and issuing threats. They tied up the boyfriend, assaulted him, and dragged the survivor to a nearby abandoned structure.

Details of the Assault

The assault continued for over two hours. The accused, primarily from Hinjilicut, included school dropouts and non-locals. Police recovered the couple’s belongings and sealed the crime scene for forensic analysis, with medical examinations conducted at MKCG Medical College in Berhampur.

CID Takes Over Investigation

By June 17, all 10 suspects were apprehended, with the CID assuming control to ensure a thorough probe. Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M confirmed the arrests, noting the minors would face juvenile justice proceedings. The CID is examining call records, potential prior criminal activity, and witness statements to establish motives. Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida ordered enhanced security measures at tourist sites, vowing to prevent future incidents. The case is registered under Section 70(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for gangrape.

Gopalpur Beach Gangrape

The incident has drawn condemnation, with former CM Naveen Patnaik highlighting safety concerns at tourist spots. Public outrage demands stricter patrolling and better lighting at beaches. The CID’s investigation, expected to conclude within weeks, aims to deliver justice, while the survivor’s resilience inspires calls for societal change to protect women in public spaces.