A horrific gang-rape of a minor girl near the Daya riverbank in the Dhauli area on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar has ignited a sharp political confrontation in Odisha.
Opposition leader and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led government, calling the incident a stark indicator of deteriorating law and order in the state capital.
In a post on social media platform X on Tuesday morning, Patnaik described the crime as “extremely sensitive and disturbing,” stating that “barbarism and anarchy are crossing limits, the state capital is becoming unsafe, criminals are fearless, and the government is losing credibility.” He questioned how much further the law and order situation must worsen before the administration wakes up, adding that the government’s inability to prevent crimes is instilling fear among citizens. Patnaik highlighted the failure to ensure a safe environment for women in the capital as evidence of the BJP government’s “incompetence and insensitivity.” He urged strict measures to curb crime and emphasized proactive prevention over reactive responses.
RELATED STORY: Naveen Patnaik Slams Odisha Govt Over Dhauli Minor Gangrape, Demands Strict Action
Responding sharply, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who holds the Women and Child Development portfolio, accused Patnaik of politicising a tragic incident. “Would the people of Odisha ever expect someone of your stature to play politics over such a heartbreaking event? When will you speak the truth?” she asked directly. Parida pointed out the police’s swift action, with two accused already arrested, as proof that the law is now functioning effectively under the current government. “Unlike showing paths in the past, the law is now moving on its own course,” she remarked, implying a contrast with the previous BJD regime.
RELATED STORY: Minor Girl Gang-Raped in Bhubaneswar Outskirts, 2 Held
The incident occurred on December 10 when the 17-year-old victim and her male friend were returning from visiting the historic Dhauli site. Reports indicate that miscreants intercepted the duo, robbed them, assaulted the boy, and allegedly gang-raped the girl. Some accounts suggest the perpetrators recorded the act and threatened the victim. An initial complaint was filed for robbery, but a subsequent detailed report led to a gang-rape case. Police have arrested two individuals, with a manhunt underway for others.
The case has drawn widespread condemnation, underscoring ongoing concerns over women’s safety in Odisha amid reports of rising crimes against minors and women.
