Safety Concerns Heightened Amid Rising Crimes Against Women in Odisha

On Wednesday, Congress raised serious concerns about the absence of security measures at tourist destinations in Odisha, following a series of recent crimes against women in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled state. A five-member fact-finding team, assembled by Congress, is now investigating these incidents.

Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan, a member of the fact-finding team, expressed alarm over the lack of security, particularly at tourist locations and festival venues. According to Ranjan, the absence of adequate police patrolling and public awareness has made it easier for criminals to target women, a concern acknowledged by the Inspector General of Police.

After the recent gangrape incident in Gopalpur, Odisha Congress President Bhakta Charan Das criticized the state government for its ineffective handling of the situation. He attributed the rise in sexual crimes to poor governance and a lack of efforts towards ensuring women's safety. Meanwhile, BJP Mahila Morcha President Aiswarya Biswal condemned the Biju Janata Dal, blaming the long-standing party for not adequately addressing crimes against women and alleging involvement of party leaders in such offenses.

(With inputs from agencies.)