Bhubaneswar: The prime accused has been arrested in the horrific rape and murder of Ankita Priyadarshini Barik, a Plus Two first-year student at Kamakhyanagar Women’s College in Dhenkanal district.
Following intensive investigation, police apprehended Jaga Patra on Saturday. During a detailed scene recreation at Saruali forest, the accused confessed to raping the minor before murdering her and dumping the body in the forest.
The incident occurred on March 19, 2026. Ankita, originally from Marthapur under Bhuban police limits, had been staying with her grandfather in Kamakhyanagar for her studies. She left home to appear for an examination at college but failed to return.
Her mutilated, blood-stained body was discovered two days ago in Saruali forest near Saruali village under Kamakhyanagar limits, with her college bag nearby. Preliminary findings indicated sexual assault and murder, sparking widespread shock and outrage in the district.
Police continue probing for any accomplices or motives, with forensic and post-mortem reports awaited to strengthen the case. The arrest has brought some relief to the grieving family and community demanding swift justice
