Horrific Crime Unfolds in Jagatsinghpur District

In a shocking incident from Odisha’s Jagatsinghpur district, two brothers have been arrested for allegedly gang-raping a 15-year-old girl and attempting to bury her alive after discovering she was five months pregnant. The accused, Bhagyadhar Das and Panchanan Das, were apprehended in Banashbara village, while a third suspect, known as Tulu, remains at large. A manhunt has been launched to locate him.

Details of the Crime and Arrest

According to police reports, the brothers repeatedly assaulted the minor over an extended period. Upon learning of her pregnancy, they allegedly plotted to bury her alive to hide their crime. Police sources revealed that the accused initially offered to arrange an abortion for the victim. They lured her to a location under this pretense, where she discovered a ditch prepared for her burial. The girl was threatened with being buried alive if she refused the abortion.

Survivor’s Escape and Legal Proceedings

The brave survivor managed to escape and reported the ordeal to her father. Following this, she underwent a medical examination at the District Headquarters Hospital. Her father filed a formal complaint at Kujang Police Station, leading to the arrest of the two brothers. The suspects have been presented in court, and investigations are ongoing.

Rising Incidents of Sexual Violence in Odisha

This case is part of a disturbing trend of sexual violence in Jagatsinghpur and surrounding areas. Earlier this week, another minor was reportedly kidnapped and raped by two men while returning from a birthday party. In Malkangiri district, a minor girl was gang-raped by three men and subsequently assaulted by a truck driver as she sought help.

Statewide Concerns Over Increasing Rape Cases

Odisha has witnessed at least 12 reported rapes in the past month alone. In June, five cases of rape and gang-rape were reported within just ten days. These incidents highlight an urgent need for enhanced safety measures and stricter law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals.

Tragic Outcomes of Sexual Violence

The state has also seen tragic outcomes from such violence. Earlier this month, a 20-year-old student in Balasore died after setting herself on fire due to alleged inaction on her sexual harassment complaint against a teacher. In another case, a 15-year-old girl in Puri’s Nimapada block was set on fire by unidentified assailants and required advanced treatment at AIIMS in New Delhi.