Five-year-old minor girl ‘sexually assaulted’ in Odisha's Deogarh; accused thrashed by villagers

A five-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted in Odisha’s Deogarh district on Sunday night, leading to public outrage and swift police action. The incident occurred in the Barkote police station area while the child was attending a religious event.

Police sources said the accused, identified as Udit Patra, was present at the same programme and allegedly separated the child from the gathering before committing the crime near a roadside location. The child raised an alarm, drawing the attention of nearby villagers.

Locals immediately rushed to the spot, rescued the girl and apprehended the accused. In the process, the accused was assaulted by villagers before police reached the scene.

Both Victim and Accused Shifted to Hospital

The accused sustained injuries during the public assault and was later rescued by police and admitted to the Deogarh district hospital. He remains under police custody. The minor girl was also taken to hospital for medical examination and treatment. Hospital authorities confirmed that her condition was stable.

POCSO Case Registered

Deogarh Superintendent of Police Anil Kumar Mishra said a case has been registered under provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Statements of the victim, her parents and eyewitnesses have been recorded as part of the investigation.

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“A forensic team has been requisitioned to examine the crime scene. Preliminary findings suggest that the accused allegedly lured the child away from the religious programme and committed the offence,” the SP said.

Police sources added that the accused was visiting relatives in the area and was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.

Accused to Be Produced in Court

Family members of the victim have filed a formal complaint. Police said the accused will be produced before the court after completion of medical procedures. Further investigation is ongoing.