Gopalpur, Jun 18: In the wake of the horrific gang rape of a 20-year-old college student at Gopalpur beach, Odisha’s Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena visited the crime scene.

He was accompanied by senior officials, including Berhampur SP Dr. Saravana Vivek M and Sub-Collector Dheena Dastageer. The visit aimed to assess the situation firsthand and ensure swift justice for the survivor.

According to reports, the survivor and her male friend were seated in a secluded area near the beach when they were attacked by a group of 10 men. The assailants reportedly tied up the male companion and took turns raping the woman. All 10 accused, including four minors, have since been arrested within 24 hours of the incident.

Minister Jena expressed deep concern over the incident and criticized the previous government’s decision to construct cabins near the beach, which were allegedly used for illegal activities. He has directed the local administration to demolish these cabins immediately. “This is not a matter for political blame games. The safety of our citizens is paramount,” he stated.

The state government has handed over the investigation to the Crime Branch, treating the case as a “red flag” incident. A senior IG-rank officer is leading the probe. The Chief Minister has also instructed that the accused be tried under the harshest provisions of law.

To prevent such incidents in the future, the government has announced plans for enhanced lighting and intensified patrolling along the beach stretch. The incident has sparked widespread outrage across Odisha, especially given Gopalpur’s status as a major tourist destination.

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