Viral video sparks outrage after man, woman beaten in Odisha

A man and his female friend were allegedly assaulted by a group of people in Odisha’s Berhampur city, triggering widespread outrage after videos of the incident went viral on social media.

According to police, the incident took place on Monday night in the Bijipur area when the couple was travelling on a motorcycle. The attackers allegedly intercepted their vehicle, dragged the man onto the road and beat him with sticks.

The woman, who attempted to protect her friend during the assault, also sustained injuries in the attack. Both victims were later admitted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital for treatment.

Police said teams from multiple police stations, including Town, Baidyanathpur and Gosaninuagaon, rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident.

Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Sanjay Kumar said the accused persons had been identified and raids were underway to arrest them.

The incident sparked sharp political reactions after disturbing visuals of the assault circulated online. Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik criticised the state government over the law and order situation and described the incident as “inhuman”.

Patnaik alleged that Odisha was witnessing “goondaraj” and demanded strict action against those responsible while urging the government to ensure public safety.