A 20-year-old college student was allegedly gang-raped by 10 men at Gopalpur beach in Odisha’s Ganjam district in India . The incident occurred on Sunday, June 15, 2025, during the Raja festival. The survivor filed a complaint, leading to swift police action.
Incident Details
The undergraduate student visited Gopalpur beach with her boyfriend and three other women to celebrate the Raja festival. Around 6:30 pm, the group was at an isolated spot near Panthanivas.
Ten men approached, detained her boyfriend, and assaulted her. The attack lasted over two hours. The assailants allegedly took turns raping her after overpowering her friend.
Police Response
The survivor lodged a First Information Report (FIR) at Gopalpur police station on Monday, June 16, 2025. Police detained seven suspects initially for interrogation.
By Tuesday, all 10 accused, aged 19 to 23, were arrested. The suspects, non-locals from Hinjili, were visiting the beach for the festival. A medical examination of the survivor was conducted, and her statement was recorded.
Official Statements
Police officials confirmed the arrests and ongoing investigation. A senior officer stated the accused were not locals, emphasizing their presence at the beach during the festival.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo motu cognizance of the case, highlighting its severity. Odisha’s Leader of Opposition, Naveen Patnaik, condemned the incident, raising concerns about women’s safety at tourist destinations.
Background Context
Gopalpur beach, a popular tourist spot, is typically bustling during festivals like Raja. The incident has shocked the community, given the area’s reputation as a safe destination. Sexual violence remains a critical issue in India, with 31,516 rape cases reported in 2022, a 20% rise from 2021.
Recent cases, like the 2002 Gujarat riots gang rape, underscore ongoing challenges in ensuring justice for survivors. This incident adds to growing concerns about safety at public recreational spaces.
Public and Political Reaction
The assault has sparked widespread outrage, with social media posts reflecting public horror. Odisha LoP Naveen Patnaik’s statement highlighted the need for better safety measures at tourist spots. The NCW’s involvement signals potential for broader scrutiny. Local residents and tourists are now questioning the security of popular destinations like Gopalpur, known for its scenic appeal
The case is under investigation, with police ensuring all evidence is preserved. The survivor’s bravery in reporting the crime has been praised.
Authorities are reviewing security at tourist spots to prevent future incidents. The NCW may push for stricter measures to protect women. Public outrage could drive policy changes, but immediate focus remains on justice for the survivor.
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