Police have arrested the prime accused in the horrific gangrape of a 19-year-old woman at Baliharchandi Beach in Puri district.
Manoj Behera, alias Kalia, was apprehended from neighboring Andhra Pradesh while attempting to flee the state.
The incident occurred on September 13 when the survivor, a college student, was sitting with her male friend in a secluded area near the Baliharchandi temple. A group of local youths from Chandiput village allegedly clicked photos and recorded videos of the couple to blackmail them. When the couple refused to pay more money after an initial extortion of ₹2,000, the gang reportedly tied up the male companion and took turns raping the woman in front of him.
Following the survivor’s statement and medical examination, police launched a statewide manhunt. Three suspects were detained, and one—Siba Sahu—was formally arrested earlier this week. The arrest of Manoj Behera marks a critical step in the investigation, with two other suspects still under interrogation.
The case has reignited concerns over tourist safety in Odisha, especially in popular beach destinations. Authorities have vowed swift justice and increased vigilance in vulnerable areas.
