Bhubaneswar:A 67-year-old man has been arrested in Bhubaneswar in Odisha after he was accused of entering a hostel and allegedly raping anMBA student. The accused, identified as Deepak Pradhan, a grocery shopkeeper from the same locality, was arrested shortly after the complaint was filed. The incident came to light after the survivor, a student at a reputed management institution, approached the Info Valley Police Station and lodged a complaint. Police acted promptly and arrested the accused on Sunday.
According to officials, the man allegedly managed to gain entry into the hostel premises and took advantage of the situation to assault the student. The survivor, though in shock, reported the incident without delay, enabling swift police action.
“We arrested the accused after gathering prima facie evidence. He has been booked under Section 64(1) (rape) and Section 62 (punishment for attempting to commit offences punishable with imprisonment for life or other imprisonment) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita,” the police officer said, adding that his background and past criminal record, if any, are being verified.
Police said the accused is currently being interrogated and will be sent to judicial custody following due legal procedures. Investigators are also examining how he was able to access the hostel, with a focus on identifying any possible security lapses.
Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken and that the case will be pursued to ensure justice for the survivor. The incident has triggered outrage among residents and renewed calls for stronger safety measures in hostels and educational institutions.
Officials said efforts are underway to review existing security arrangements and prevent such breaches in the future, even as the investigation continues.
Satish Kumar Dash is a reporter from Odisha with 5 years of journalism experience, including 2.5 years at Times Now Navbharat.
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
