A man and his female friend were allegedly assaulted with sticks by a group of people while they were travelling on a motorcycle in Odisha’s Berhampur city on Monday, May 18. A video of the incident has surfaced on social media and is being widely circulated. According to PTI report, motorcycle was allegedly intercepted by a group of people in the Bijipur area, and the man was dragged onto the road and assaulted with sticks.
During the attack, a woman who attempted to shield the man was also injured. Both victims were admitted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital. Additional Director General (Law and Order) Sanjay Kumar told PTI that the accused have been identified and are being pursued. Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M stated that police teams from Town, Baidyanathpur, and Gosaninuagaon stations were dispatched to the scene following reports of the incident.
Following the release of viral videos depicting the assault, the incident sparked strong political reactions. Opposition Leader Naveen Patnaik criticized the government's handling of the state's law and order, describing Odisha as experiencing a "terrifying spectacle of anarchy" and alleging the prevalence of "goondaraj.
" Calling the assault "inhuman" and shocking, Patnaik asserted that criminals had become emboldened and questioned the police administration and government's commitment to public safety. He demanded strict action against those responsible and urged the government to ensure citizen safety.