The shocking murder of Soumya Ranjan Swain in Balianta has exposed serious questions about the local police’s initial response, with critics slamming them for a “soft” approach that skipped the tougher mob violence provisions.
Balianta police registered the case only under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 103(1) — the general murder clause — even though the victim was allegedly beaten to death by a crowd. The specific mob violence section, BNS 103(2), which carries far stricter punishment, was not invoked. Legal experts fear this could allow the accused to slip through lighter judicial scrutiny once the case reaches court.
Now the Crime Branch has stepped in and is running a high-octane probe. On the second day of investigation, two teams of 10 officers each combed the crime scene, Soumya’s house, his friend Om’s residence, the victim’s home, and Balianta police station. They also visited Balakati Community Health Centre, scrutinising outdoor treatment registers, identifying the doctor on duty that day, and verifying the exact time and bed where Soumya was treated.
Crime Branch DG Binaytosh Mishra broke his silence on the growing controversy. “Two cases have been registered in the Balianta barbaric incident. Some witness statements have already been recorded. We will soon take statements from more eyewitnesses and Soumya’s family members,” he said.
The postmortem report, forensic evidence, and social media data are all being meticulously analysed. “Every aspect of the investigation is being examined in minute detail,” the DG said, adding, “at this stage we cannot label the incident as mob violence. No such evidence has come to light yet in the Soumya murder case. But if during the investigation concrete proof emerges, the mob violence section will definitely be applied against the accused.”
The development has triggered widespread anger and anxiety among locals who want the harshest possible charges. With the Crime Branch now leading the charge, all eyes are on whether fresh evidence will upgrade the case and ensure real justice for Soumya Ranjan Swain.
