7-year-old girl ‘raped’ in Odisha's Dhenkanal, condition critical

A seven-year-old girl is fighting for her life following an alleged rape in Hindol locality of Dhenkanal district, on Sunday.

Also Read: 59-year-old forester drags school-returning girl to his room, attempts to rape her; arrested in Odisha

According sources, the accused fled after raping the 7-year-old girl and wrapping her in palm leaves. The minor was found unconscious, and her family rescued her after learning about the mishap. The family members found the rape survivor in critical condition and rushed her to Hindol sub-divisional hospital (SDH), before transferring her to Angul district headquarters hospital (DHH) for further treatment after her condition deteriorated.

The Hindol police, alongside a district scientific team and a dog squad, have commenced an investigation at the crime site. The suspect is absconding, prompting a widespread concern and immediate actions towards his apprehension.

The local community is grappling with shock and sorrow, as police authorities urge anyone with information to assist with the investigation. The focus remains firmly on securing justice for the minor girl and supporting her through her recovery ordeal.

“The minor is undergoing treatment and condition of the victim girl is not out of danger now,” doctors treating her in the government-run health facility said.

Police have initiated a manhunt to nab the accused man.

Earlier in another such incident, Commissionerate Police-Bhubaneswar had put up a warrant notice (Latka in local parlance) issued against a youth named Akshay Naik alias Nanda, on March 23, 2025. Akshay was accused of raping a minor girl.

An arrest warrant had been issued, and police had declared that should he fail to surrender, his properties would face confiscation. Police had stuck the warrant notice to his residence, drawing the attention of local residents.

Initiatives taken to address rape cases

The Odisha government has implemented several initiatives to address rape, including stricter laws, fast-track courts for rape cases, and increased police sensitisation. Nirbhaya Fund established after 2012 Delhi gang rape supports projects related to women's safety.

Must Read: Minor girl rape case: Police put up ‘Latka’ in front of accused’s house in Bhubaneswar

However, challenges remain in terms of effective implementation and enforcement of laws, as well as addressing the underlying social factors that contribute to rape culture.