Odisha Under Scrutiny: Five Rape Cases Reported in 10 Days Spark Concern

Authorities in Odisha are investigating a series of rape cases that have occurred within a short timeframe, raising serious concerns about the safety of women in the state. Five separate incidents have been reported in the last ten days. The most recent case involves a woman who was allegedly gang-raped by three men in the Karanjai area of Mayurbhanj district on June 25. One suspect has been apprehended, while the search for others continues. In another incident, ten individuals were arrested on June 17 following the gang-rape of a woman at Gopalpur beach in Ganjam district. Additionally, a 17-year-old girl was found dead in Keonjhar district on June 18, with suspicions of sexual assault. Further, a 31-year-old woman in Mayurbhanj district was reportedly gang-raped in her home. Finally, a 17-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a clinic owner in Berhampur, Ganjan district. The surge in reported sexual assaults has prompted expressions of alarm from political figures, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures and effective law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals and deter future crimes.