NCST Directs Odisha Govt to Probe Minor Girl Rape Case at Koraput Hostel

Bhubaneswar, May 14 : The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has invoked its constitutional authority under Article 338A to initiate a probe into the alleged rape of a minor girl at the Guneipada ST-SC Girls’ Hostel in Lamtaput block of Odisha’s Koraput district.

The Commission issued a formal notice on Tuesday in response to a serious complaint lodged on May 5 by BJD leader and former minister Tukuni Sahu, along with others. The complaint highlighted a heinous crime allegedly committed at the government-run hostel, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Machkund Police Station.

In addition to the alleged sexual assault, the complaint pointed to broader systemic failures concerning the safety, security, and management of hostels meant for Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) girls across Odisha.

Acting swiftly, the NCST has served notices to key officials in the state government, including the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, the Principal Secretary of the ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, and the Director General of Police. These officials have been directed to submit a comprehensive report detailing the facts of the case and the actions taken so far within seven days of receiving the notice.

The Commission has clarified that the report may be submitted via post, in person, or through any other mode of communication. It has further warned that failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe may lead the Commission to invoke its powers as a civil court under Article 338A. This includes the authority to summon individuals or representatives to appear before it.

The incident has sparked outrage across the state, with several activists and political leaders demanding swift justice and stringent safety measures for students residing in government hostels. The NCST’s intervention marks a significant step towards ensuring accountability and justice in the matter.