Disturbing Crime Sparks Outrage in Odisha
A shocking case of gang rape and blackmail has emerged in Cuttack, where a 19-year-old college student was allegedly assaulted by six individuals, including a minor. The disturbing crime, involving repeated assaults and coercion, has led to significant public outcry and calls for justice.
The Incident: Blackmail and Assault
The incident reportedly began during the Dussehra festivities when the victim celebrated her birthday with her boyfriend at a café in the Purighat area. Unbeknownst to her, her boyfriend secretly recorded intimate moments with assistance from the café owner. The video was later used to lure her to a house in Barang, where the victim alleges, she was gang-raped by her boyfriend, the café owner, and their associates.
According to Cuttack Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jagmohan Meena, the accused not only used the recorded video to blackmail the victim but subjected her to repeated assaults. Authorities took swift action after the victim lodged a complaint on November 4, leading to the arrest of six individuals involved, including a minor. The suspects have been charged under various sections, including those of the SC/ST and IT Acts.
Police Investigations and Community Outcry
A special investigation team led by Zone-6 Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Swastik Panda, along with officers from the Badambadi and Purighat police stations, has been working on the case. Authorities confirmed that evidence, including the incriminating video, was recovered from the suspects’ mobile devices, which are currently being examined at the State Forensic Science Laboratory in Bhubaneswar.
The DCP urged other potential victims of blackmail to come forward, emphasizing the importance of addressing and preventing such crimes. Public outrage over the case has grown, with demands for justice and a stronger stance against gender-based violence in Odisha.
Government’s Response: Promise of a Safer Odisha
Amid the backlash, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has promised a “crime-free Odisha for women by 2036.” Harichandan emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating violence against women, reiterating that Chief Minister Mohan Majhi is dedicated to ensuring strict and immediate punishment for the perpetrators of this crime. The minister reaffirmed the administration’s stance on addressing cases of domestic violence, assault, and rape swiftly and with zero tolerance.
A Call for Justice and Change
The Cuttack incident underscores the urgency for systemic changes to safeguard women and address crimes of sexual violence. The arrest of the suspects offers a step toward justice, but the path to a safer Odisha requires continued vigilance, proactive legal measures, and a culture that empowers victims to seek help without fear. With the government’s pledge to create a “crime-free state for women,” hope remains that the incident will lead to meaningful action, ensuring greater safety and respect for all women in Odisha.
