(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Odisha Rape Case Sparks Outrage: BJD Leaders Slam BJP Government Over Women’s Safety Crisis
In a shocking incident that’s shaken Odisha, a young woman was allegedly gang-raped near the famous Maa Baliharachandi temple in Puri district. This has triggered fierce criticism from opposition leaders, who say the state is failing women badly.
Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA Pratap Keshari Deb didn’t hold back in his attack on the Odisha government. Speaking to in Bhubaneswar, he called the rising atrocities against women "highly deplorable and heart-wrenching." Over the last six months, he said, crimes against women in Odisha have gone way beyond limits. "Criminals aren’t scared of the police or any punishment because the system feels so weak," Deb added. He even questioned Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi directly: "Has the CM ever asked himself why people don’t take the police seriously?"
The alleged rape happened in broad daylight at Baliharachandi Peeth, a popular tourist spot just 50 km from the state capital. Police say a young couple had gone there when four local youths from Chandiput village snapped their photos and used them to blackmail the woman. She was then assaulted by the group. So far, two suspects are in custody, and an investigation is underway.
This isn’t an isolated case, according to BJD chief and former CM Naveen Patnaik. In a strong post on X, he expressed deep shock over the Puri gang rape and highlighted a "horrifying pattern" of violence against women across Odisha. "While BJP leaders put on a show of concern, these predators roam free in broad daylight," Patnaik wrote. He pointed to other victims from places like Gopalpur, Baleswar, and Balanga, who are still waiting for justice after tragic incidents.
Patnaik slammed the BJP government’s empty promises. "Every time, we hear the same lines about strict action and women’s safety, but nothing changes," he said. He warned that such crimes near a major tourist hub like Puri could damage Odisha’s image at home and abroad. "The BJP must act fast and strong so our women feel safe again," he urged.
Puri District Collector Divya Jyoti Parida confirmed that police are probing the matter. "An inquiry is ongoing, and we’ll take all legal steps needed," she told earlier.
As the Baliharachandi rape case unfolds, many in Odisha are demanding real change to protect women and restore faith in the system. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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