Gang rape of a minor on the banks of Dhauli river. file photo
Jagran correspondent, Bhubaneswar. There is a stir in the state over the case of gang rape of a minor on the banks of Dhauli river. Taking this sensitive matter seriously, the Child and Women Commission has taken suo motu cognizance.
A team of the Women's Commission reached Dhauli police station and reviewed the case with police officials. After this, the Child Commission team also reached the police station, investigated the facts and registered a separate case.
After the incident, the Commissionerate Police also seems to be fully active. Police have already arrested two accused in this case, although during the investigation, indications of involvement of others have emerged. Continuous raids are being conducted by the police to catch them.
According to police sources, information has come to light that some videos of the day of the incident were recorded in the mobile phones of the arrested accused. Keeping this important evidence in mind, the mobile phones of both the accused will be sent to the State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL) for forensic examination.
Here, President of 'Sangharsh Parivar for Justice' Subrata Kumar Das has filed a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission. He has appealed for a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the victim's family along with demanding strict action against the culprits. The Chief Minister, Home Department Secretary, DGP, Police Commissioner and DCP of Bhubaneswar have been made parties in this case.
Politics heats up, allegations and counter-allegations intensify
Political rhetoric regarding the incident has also intensified. Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik expressed concern through internet media and said that the incident of gang rape of a minor in the capital is extremely shameful and worrying. He said that this raises serious questions on the law and order of the state and is emboldening the criminals.
Taking aim at the government, Naveen Patnaik said that the government is failing in ensuring the safety of women. He demanded that instead of reacting after the incidents, such crimes should be curbed by taking concrete steps beforehand.
Deputy Chief Minister Prabhati Parida has strongly countered the opposition's allegations. He posted on X and said that it is unfortunate to do politics on this serious incident. He said that the police took prompt action and arrested the accused and the law is taking its course. The government is in no mood to spare any culprit in this case.
Case declared red flag, investigation handed over to crime branch
The state police has declared the Dhauli gang rape case a 'red flag' and handed over the responsibility of investigation to the crime branch. This decision has been taken considering the seriousness and social impact of the matter. A special team of 'Crime Against Women' cell has been formed under the leadership of a DSP level officer, which will soon file a charge sheet after thoroughly investigating the medical report, forensic evidence and other aspects.