The fiancée of an Indian Army officer has accused police personnel of sexually abusing her while in custody at the Bharatpur Police Station in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The case has sparked outrage, with five police officers suspended and a judicial probe demanded. Former Odisha Chief Minister and BJD leader, Naveen Patnaik, expressed his shock and called for swift action, urging a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) and a judicial inquiry.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Attack and Allegations of Abuse: The incident occurred late Sunday when the Army officer and his fiancée, who owns a restaurant in Bhubaneswar, were assaulted by a group of individuals. Seeking help, they went to the Bharatpur Police Station, but instead of assistance, the woman claims she was mistreated, physically assaulted, and sexually harassed by police personnel, including both female and male officers.
- Suspension of Officers: The Odisha Police suspended five officers involved in the incident for “gross misconduct.” The suspension order came after mounting public outrage and media attention.
- Protests and Political Response: Women’s rights activists protested in front of the Police Bhavan, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused police officers. Naveen Patnaik condemned the incident, describing the police’s actions as “shocking and incomprehensible,” and blamed the current BJP government for allowing such abuses to occur.
- Victim’s Harrowing Account: The woman recounted her ordeal after being released on bail. She described being dragged, beaten, and tied up by female officers, and later sexually assaulted by a male officer who exposed himself. She was also kicked in the chest and humiliated. The Army officer has since filed a formal complaint.
- National Commission for Women (NCW) Response: The NCW has taken suo motu cognizance of the case and requested an action report from the Odisha DGP within three days. The Odisha High Court will take up the plea to cancel the FIR against the woman and the Army officer on September 26.
This case has led to widespread calls for justice, with political leaders and activists demanding strict action against those responsible.
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