The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognizance of the shocking gang-rape of a 20-year-old student at Gopalpur Beach, Odisha.
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has issued a stern directive to the Odisha Director General of Police (DGP), demanding the immediate arrest of all remaining accused.
In a statement, Rahatkar stressed the urgency of a swift and time-bound investigation. The Commission has also called for free medical and psychological assistance for the survivor and urged authorities to ensure compensation under Section 396 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) Act.
Further, the NCW has set a three-day deadline for an Action Taken Report from the state police. This intervention comes amid growing public outrage over the incident, as ten individuals, including four minors, have been arrested so far.
Local activists and women’s rights groups have welcomed the NCW’s intervention, emphasising the need for better safety measures for women in public spaces and accountability from law enforcement.
