A gang rape of a minor girl in Bhubaneswar has caused widespread anger. The attack happened on December 10. The girl and a male friend were returning from Dhauli, a popular tourist spot. Three criminals blocked their way. The friend was attacked badly, and the girl was taken to a lonely spot. The three men raped her one after another. They also recorded videos and photos of the crime. The girl told her family about the incident. A complaint was filed immediately. Police arrested two suspects, but the main accused is still free. Urmila Mohapatra, a member of the State Commission for Women, visited the spot on Tuesday. She demanded the police arrest the main accused and increase daytime patrolling. Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condemned the attack on social media site 'X'. He said, "The incident of gang rape of minors on the chest of Bhubaneswar is an issue that is extremely touching and distressing. Barbarism and anarchy have crossed their limits; the state capital is becoming unsafe." He added, "Criminals are fearless, the government is losing credibility. The government’s incompetence in preventing crime is instilling fear in the general public. The BJP government’s failure to ensure a safe environment for women in the capital exposes its gross negligence and insensitive conduct." Patnaik urged the government to act strictly and proactively to protect women and stop crime before it happens. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida responded sharply, saying, "People have not expected politicisation on the tragic incident like from a personality like of yours. When will you speak the truth? Swift police action and the arrest of the accused in this incident are the only truth. The government is move on the path of law, not the path shown by you. We would be happy if you had written the letter based on your experience." The Odisha government promised full arrests and fast-track trial for the accused. Published - December 17, 2025 05:07 am IST