Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Vinayotosh Mishra has issued a crucial clarification regarding the high-profile death of GRP Constable Soumya Ranjan Swain in the Balianta area, assuring that the Crime Branch investigation is proceeding completely free of any external pressure and remains entirely impartial.
The DGP recently met with the grieving father of the late constable, offering personal reassurance regarding the transparency and rigour of the ongoing probe. Addressing media queries, the DGP noted that while lie detector tests will be utilised where necessary, sufficient physical and forensic evidence has already been gathered, minimising the need for extensive additional polygraph evaluations.
Background of the Incident
The tragic incident dates back to May 7, when the confrontation unfolded near the Ramchandrapur bridge in Balianta. Soumya and his companion, Om Prakash, were travelling on a motorcycle when an alleged dispute arose following a minor collision with a scooter ridden by two young women. This led to a large local gathering, resulting in a brutal assault on Soumya. According to the post-mortem report, the victim sustained severe injuries across 21 locations on his body, with fatal trauma to the brain.
Current Status of Investigation
The case was subsequently handed over to the Crime Branch to ensure a thorough and specialised inquiry. Key developments so far include:
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Arrests: Over 20 accused individuals have been apprehended in connection with the assault.
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Charge-sheets: Formal charge-sheets have been filed against 11 primary suspects, while efforts continue to trace other absconding individuals.
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Scientific Testing: The lie detector test for Soumya’s companion, Om Prakash, has been successfully completed, with results corroborating his initial statements.
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Next Steps: Preparations are underway by the Crime Branch to conduct lie detector tests on the two women involved in the initial altercation.
Administrative Actions and Public Reaction
Family members of the deceased have consistently alleged a deeper conspiracy behind the incident, keeping public scrutiny high. In response to initial administrative lapses, local police personnel faced suspension, and the Inspector-in-Charge of Balianta police station was transferred. Furthermore, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has been closely monitoring the developments of the case.
With the DGP’s recent intervention and explicit clarification, authorities hope to restore public confidence and reassure the victim’s family that a transparent, objective quest for justice is actively being pursued.
