Bhubaneswar: A shocking assault on a young couple in Odisha’s Berhampur has triggered outrage after a video of the incident went viral on social media, showing two men brutally attacking them with bamboo sticks in broad daylight.

According to a report by The Times of India, the incident took place on Monday in the Giri Road area of Berhampur.

The viral footage shows the young man lying helpless on the road as the attackers repeatedly beat him, while his girlfriend desperately tries to shield him from the blows.

Several passers-by reportedly gathered at the spot and appeared visibly disturbed by the attack, but no immediate intervention was seen in the video.

Both victims were later shifted to the hospital for treatment. According to media reports, the couple sustained injuries but is currently in stable condition. The accused is said to have been identified.

Berhampur Superintendent of Police Saravana Vivek M said the assault was linked to an old rivalry.

"The attackers and the victim were working in a group. They had some differences. The attackers attacked the victim due to past enmity," he said.

Reacting to the incident, former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched a sharp attack on the BJP government, alleging a complete breakdown of law and order in the state.

In a post on X, Patnaik said, "Odisha is witnessing the terrifying spectacle of anarchy; it doesn't feel like BJP rule, but rather that goondaraj is rampant."

Referring to the incident, he said, "The sight of a young man and women being brutally beaten to near death in broad daylight on Brahmapur's beach road is utterly inhuman. It has terrified and shaken the entire people of Odisha."

The BJD leader further alleged that criminals had become emboldened under the present dispensation. "It feels like the BJP government has handed Odisha over to criminals. Emboldened, criminals are committing extremely brutal acts. Where is the police administration going? Where is the rule of law?" he asked.

Patnaik also questioned the government over public safety, saying, "How much longer will the BJP government jeopardize the safety of ordinary people in its revelry? How much more shame will Odisha endure? The government won't run on empty bombast; people need security."

He further claimed that Odisha was facing criticism across the country over the deteriorating law and order situation and demanded immediate action against those responsible for the assault.

"Due to the appalling breakdown of law and order and goondaraj rule, Odisha is being condemned across the country. The BJP government must stop shielding criminals. Immediately take the strictest possible action against the guilty and ensure the safety of ordinary people," he added.