Odisha shocking Incident: College Student Assaulted Near Gopalpur Beach, 8 Held, 2 Absconding

Ganjam (Odisha), June 17, 2025 : In a deeply disturbing case that has raised concerns over public safety in Odisha, a 20-year-old college student was allegedly assaulted near Gopalpur beach in Ganjam district on Sunday evening, June 15. Ten men are believed to be involved, of whom eight have been arrested while two remain absconding.

The incident reportedly occurred in a secluded area behind Panthanivas, a government-run tourist resort. The survivor, a student of a local college, had visited the beach with a classmate around 6:30 pm. Though they noticed a group of young men nearby, they did not initially perceive any threat.

According to police sources, the situation took a violent turn after dark, when the student and her classmate were allegedly confronted and overpowered by the group. The survivor was subjected to serious harm, while her friend was allegedly restrained and threatened.

Despite the traumatic ordeal, the young woman displayed remarkable courage by reporting the incident at Gopalpur police station around 11:00 pm the same evening. Acting swiftly, police arrested seven suspects within hours, later detaining an eighth.

Ganjam police have launched a full-scale investigation. The arrested individuals, aged between 19 and 23, are residents of Hinjili and are reportedly school or college dropouts.

Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M confirmed the development, stating, “A case has been registered under Section 70(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Three dedicated police teams are working to trace the two individuals who are still at large.”

Medical examinations of both the survivor and the accused were conducted at MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur, as part of standard legal procedure.

The incident has triggered public concern and outrage, with citizens and community leaders urging stronger safety measures at public locations, especially at tourist sites. Rights groups have called for increased police patrolling, surveillance, and the installation of emergency response systems at beaches and similar destinations.

Authorities have assured the public of a fair and speedy investigation and have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice and strengthening women’s safety across the state.