Youth Congress Protests in Bhubaneswar Over Dhauli Gangrape, Demands Justice

Bhubaneswar witnessed tense scenes on Saturday as Youth Congress workers staged a protest demanding justice in the Dhauli gangrape case.

The demonstrators attempted to gherao Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s residence, but were stopped by police barricades.

In retaliation, protesters hurled eggs at the barricades, leading to a confrontation in which hundreds of Congress workers were detained.

The incident stems from the December 10 gangrape of a 17‑year‑old girl near the Daya River in Dhauli. Police have arrested three accused, including the prime suspect, while two remain absconding.

Congress leaders criticised the delay in arrests and accused the Commissionerate Police of failing to ensure safety at tourist spots, citing similar incidents in Gopalpur.

Youth Congress leader Yasir Nawaz alleged that the BJP government has failed to control rising crimes against women in Odisha.

Odisha Mahila Congress president Minakshi Bahinipati demanded Rs 5 lakh compensation and a government job for the victim’s family.

She also pointed to lapses in security during President Droupadi Murmu’s recent visit, referencing the bomb attack near Kendriya Vidyalaya.

While BJD president Naveen Patnaik condemned the incident, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida accused opposition parties of politicising the tragedy.

The Odisha Women’s Commission visited the victim and offered counselling, and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan announced that the case will be tried in a fast‑track court.

The protest highlights growing political confrontation in Odisha, with opposition parties intensifying attacks on the ruling BJP while the government promises swift judicial action.