Odisha: Minor Allegedly Gang-Raped; Two Arrested

According to police sources, the minor was accompanied by her male friend when the accused allegedly intercepted them, robbed them of mobile phones and cash, and subsequently committed the assault on December 10. The incident reportedly occurred in the presence of the girl’s friend.

Following the complaint, police acted promptly and apprehended two of the three accused on Monday. Both were arrested and produced before the court. The victim’s statement has been recorded in accordance with legal procedures, officials said.

Police said efforts are on to trace and arrest the third accused, who is currently absconding.

The survivor has been admitted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for treatment. The accused was arrested shortly after the complaint was lodged, and further investigation is underway.

State law minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said the government has taken serious note of the incident and assured that the culprits would be awarded the strictest possible punishment.

“The Mohan Charan Majhi government has always taken crimes against women very seriously. In the past, such incidents have been handled with utmost care, and all accused have been brought to book. We will ensure that all those involved in the present crime are brought to justice,” the minister said.

Meanwhile, the Odisha State Commission for Women on Tuesday took cognisance of the incident and visited the crime spot. The commission also instructed the investigating officers to ensure early and effective completion of the probe so that the accused receive stringent punishment.

In a separate incident reported in the capital city a few days earlier, a minor girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by the landlord of the house where her family was residing. A complaint in this regard was lodged at the Mahila Police Station and the accused was arrested.