Two held for gang rape of minor near popular tourist site in Odisha

Hours later, the complainant and the victim appeared before the police and alleged that the victim had been sexually assaulted by the two accused.

Police then registered a gang rape case following the fresh complaint and arrested two persons. A scientific team visited the spot and collected evidence. “The girl’s medical examination was conducted and her statement was recorded before a court,” a senior police officer said.

While police have not revealed the identity of the accused, citing the sensitivity of the case, they said efforts are on to arrest the remaining accused involved in the crime.

The incident has also raised concern as it is the second such case near a popular tourist site in the state in the past six months. In June, a college student was sexually assaulted, in which police arrested at least 10 persons.

Former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik took to X, calling the case “an issue that is extremely touching and distressing” and blaming the BJP-led state government.

“Barbarism and anarchy have crossed their limits; the state capital is becoming unsafe. Criminals are fearless, the government is losing credibility…. The BJP government’s failure to ensure a safe environment for women in the capital exposes its gross negligence and insensitive conduct. The government must take strict measures… (and) must be proactive in preventing it beforehand,” he posted.