At least 55 to 60 rape cases and 5 to 8 gang rape cases occur in a year in the Sundargarh district, revealed sources. About 25 to 30 rape cases occur in Rourkela only in a year.
This year many such heinous crimes occurred in Rourkela and Sundargarh district and many of them have stunned the masses. Even in many cases the victims are the minor girls.While several cases occurred with a fake assurance of marriage, many occurred by lure of chocolate or use of tranquilizer. Development of relationship through Facebook and social media has been another prime cause of the crime. Even in recent pasts, certain rape cases occurred after burglary.
Given the enormity of the situation, the women and girls are not feeling secure in the district, sources said.
While a large number of cases go unnoticed or without a complaint with the police, just a few are reported in police. Many victims and their family members on the fear of social stigma prefer not to file any complaint with police.
In a couple of months ago, an IIC of Biramitrapur police station and a Government doctor were arrested and are still behind the bar for their alleged involvement in a rape case and illegal termination of pregnancy of a minor girl. That incident had triggered much unease across the State. The case is still under the investigation by the State Crime Branch. Similarly, in another incident, an OAPF constable was arrested in a rape case.
Early police action and stringent action by the court in a short period will help in curbing such heinous crime, says social activist AK Azad.
According to him, adequate support and protection should be given to the victims and their families so that they dare speak against the criminals.
On the other hand, the police say it would be not possible on their part to guard each denizen of district. However, police are alert to take action against culprit with appropriate investigation in time if any complaint comes, the department sources say.