In yet another shocking case highlighting the dark underbelly of Odisha’s popular Jatra (folk theatre) industry, two self-proclaimed party managers have been arrested for allegedly drugging, raping, and blackmailing a young woman from Pattamundai with explicit videos while extorting ₹2.80 lakh from her on the false promise of making her a heroine.
The accused, identified as Bulu Panda and Jyoti Panda, allegedly lured the woman from Dandisahi village by promising her a glamorous role in a reputed Jatra troupe. On April 6, 2026, they picked her up near Chaudkulat petrol pump, took her to a pre-booked hotel in Garapur, Kendrapara, drugged her with a cold drink, and repeatedly assaulted her while filming the act. They then threatened to viral the obscene videos if she complained and forced her to remain silent.
The next day, the duo took her to Balichandrapur to “introduce” her to the party owner. On May 12, Bulu Panda allegedly abducted her again from Gagua Chowk, took her to another hotel near Baldevjieu Temple, assaulted her once more, and demanded an additional ₹50,000.
Exhausted by the continuous exploitation and threats, the victim finally lodged a complaint at Pattamundai Model Police Station on May 26. Acting swiftly, police registered Case No. 233/26 under relevant sections of rape and cheating, arrested both accused, and forwarded them to court on Saturday.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage in Kendrapara district and added fuel to the ongoing debate about exploitation and casting couch practices within Odisha’s Jatra circuit, which has been mired in controversies for several months.
Police described the case as “serious and sensitive” and assured that a thorough investigation is underway.
