18-year-old gangraped in Odisha while going to birthday party, key accused arrested: police
Jagatsinghpur, Odisha – An 18-year-old girl from Jagatsinghpur district became the target of a horrifying crime on Monday evening. Two men attacked and gangraped her while she was walking to attend her cousin’s birthday party. The incident took place just a few hundred meters from her home.
Assault Near Home
The girl, who belongs to a Dalit community, was walking alone when the two accused stopped her. Both men are from her village. They pulled her into a secluded area and sexually assaulted her. The girl somehow managed to return home in a state of trauma.
Her parents rushed her to the local hospital after seeing her condition. Doctors confirmed injuries that matched her statement. Her condition remains serious but stable, and she is receiving medical and psychological care.
Police Move Quickly
Soon after the girl’s family filed a complaint, police launched a search for the attackers. Within 24 hours, officers arrested the prime suspect from Cuttack. Later that night, the second accused was caught from a nearby area.
Police have booked both men under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including gangrape and criminal intimidation. Officers also formed special teams to speed up the investigation.
Jagatsinghpur SP said, “We’re making sure the survivor and her family receive full protection. Our teams are collecting all necessary evidence to file a strong chargesheet.”
Political and Public Reaction
The incident has sparked political outrage. Leaders from both the ruling BJD and opposition BJP visited the hospital. They expressed anger over rising crimes against women and demanded swift justice.
Citizens also voiced their concern on social media. Hashtags like #JusticeForOdishaGirl and #StopRapeCulture started trending in the state. Women’s rights activists urged the government to improve safety measures in villages and small towns.
Series of Similar Crimes
Odisha has seen a disturbing rise in sexual assault cases recently. Earlier this year, ten men gangraped a college student at Gopalpur beach. In another incident, a minor girl was abused by a man who offered her a lift.
These repeated attacks show deep-rooted problems. Many areas lack proper lighting and patrolling. Victims often fear social backlash or slow justice. Experts say better awareness and stronger community support systems are needed to reduce such crimes.
Family Devastated
The survivor’s father, a daily wage worker, spoke about the pain his family is facing. “My daughter never caused trouble. She stayed home and helped with chores. We didn’t have money to send her to college. Now her whole life is shattered,” he said with tears in his eyes.
He added that the family fears judgment from neighbors and long court delays. Still, they remain hopeful that the police and courts will ensure justice.
Help from Activists
Women’s groups from Bhubaneswar and Jagatsinghpur have stepped in. They are helping the survivor with legal support and therapy. Some NGOs are planning to assist the family financially.
One activist said, “She showed immense bravery by reporting the crime. Our job now is to support her recovery and make sure she doesn’t feel alone.”
What Comes Next
Authorities have promised a speedy trial and strict punishment. Forensic experts are working on gathering evidence, and police are preparing the case file.
This case highlights the urgent need for stronger safety measures. Police patrols, faster court hearings, and public awareness campaigns are essential steps. Local leaders have also asked for more funds to improve village infrastructure.
The young survivor’s courage may help bring change. Her voice, and those of others like her, must be heard and protected. The people of Odisha now look to the state’s justice system to take swift and fair action.
