In a disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through Odisha, a young woman was allegedly gang-raped at the Gopalpur Beach area in Ganjam district on June 15, 2025, during the Raja Sankranti festival.
According to police reports, the horrific crime unfolded Sunday evening when the victim was on a visit to the beach with two male friends. A group of 8 to 10 youths allegedly detained one of her companions and subjected her to a brutal gang rape. Three individuals are accused of committing the assault, while others facilitated the crime.
The Gopalpur police, led by SP Shravan Vivek, have detained seven suspects for interrogation, with efforts ongoing to apprehend the remaining absconding accused.
The incident has exposed glaring deficiencies in security arrangements at Gopalpur Beach, a bustling tourist hub. Despite its popularity, the absence of adequate police patrolling and surveillance during the incident has drawn widespread criticism.
This case adds to a troubling pattern of sexual violence in the Ganjam district. Recent reports include the alleged rape of a minor by her father in Digapahandi and the gang rape of two minor sisters in Golanthara, highlighting a broader societal issue.
