Bhubaneswar, June 20: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday strongly condemned the alleged assault on a Delhi-based girl student in Rayagada district's Kalyansinghpur area, calling the incident a shocking and inhumane act that has tarnished Odisha’s image.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Patnaik expressed concern over the incident and extended his sympathies to the victim. He described the alleged attack, reportedly carried out by a group in broad daylight, as a disturbing reflection of growing lawlessness and declining respect for women's dignity.
“The horrific incident involving a Delhi student in Kalyansinghpur has shocked, embarrassed and deeply concerned the people of Odisha,” Patnaik stated.
The BJD leader said the episode has triggered widespread outrage and raised serious questions about public safety in the state. He questioned the government's response and sought accountability from the administration over the deteriorating law-and-order situation.
Patnaik asked why such incidents continue to occur despite government assurances and whether the police and administration have become ineffective in protecting citizens. He also criticized what he termed the government's silence on the matter, alleging that such inaction emboldens criminals.
Referring to the state's reputation, Patnaik said increasing crimes against women and recurring incidents of violence are drawing criticism from across the country and beyond. He also took a swipe at the government's development claims, arguing that public safety must remain a priority.
The former Chief Minister urged the state government to take the strictest possible measures to ensure the safety and security of women and restore public confidence in law enforcement.
The incident reportedly occurred on June 16 when two fellowship workers, including a woman from Delhi, were allegedly attacked by a mob after rumours circulated that they were child traffickers.
Meanwhile, police have intensified the investigation and arrested five more individuals in connection with the case. With the latest arrests, the total number of accused taken into custody has reached 21.
