Odisha CM Assures Meets Army Major and Fiancé, Assures Impartial Probe into Custodial Torture | Read

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi met with an Indian Army Major and his fiancé at the Loka Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar today, assuring them of an impartial investigation into their alleged custodial torture by the Bharatpur police.

The meeting, which also included the fiancé’s father, was held in response to the public outcry over the incident.

During the discussion, CM Majhi emphasized the state government’s commitment to justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.

“We will ensure a thorough and unbiased investigation. Those responsible will face strict action,” he stated. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo, and Minister Suresh Pujari were also present at the meeting.

The incident, which involved severe mistreatment of the Army officer and the sexual assault of his fiancé, occurred when the couple approached the Bharatpur police station to file a complaint about a road rage incident. In response to the allegations, the Odisha government has ordered a judicial inquiry, led by Justice Chitta Ranjan Dash, a retired High Court judge.

The Orissa High Court has also directed that the names and images of the Army officer and his fiancée not be disclosed on any electronic, print, or social media platforms. Additionally, the court has instructed the Additional Director General (ADG) of Police (Modernisation) to submit a status report on the installation and functionality of CCTV cameras at all police stations across the state.

Five police personnel from the Bharatpur police station have been suspended, and a case has been registered against them. The judicial inquiry is expected to submit its findings within 60 days, and the state government has requested the Orissa High Court to oversee the ongoing investigation by the Crime Branch of the Odisha Police.

The Army Major’s fiancé expressed her gratitude to CM Majhi, stating, “Mohan Majhi has proved that he is a people’s Chief Minister in the true sense. Thank you for your support”.

This incident has sparked a broader conversation about police reform and the need for stringent measures to prevent custodial abuse. The High Court’s directives and the state government’s actions are seen as steps towards ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law.