A Government Railway Police (GRP) constable was allegedly beaten to death by a mob in Balianta on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar on Thursday following allegations of misconduct involving two women.
Police have arrested five individuals in connection with the incident and formed a special investigation team to identify others involved in the assault.
The deceased has been identified as Soumya Ranjan Swain, who was posted in Cuttack. Another youth, Om Prakash Rout, sustained injuries during the incident and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital.
Allegations Against Two Youths Triggered Tension
According to preliminary reports, two women were travelling on a scooter when Swain and Rout allegedly overtook them on a motorcycle in the Balianta area. The women later accused the duo of misbehaviour, leading to tension at the spot as local residents gathered.
One of the women reportedly filed a formal complaint accusing Soumya Ranjan Swain of attempted rape. Police officials confirmed that her statement has been recorded as part of the ongoing investigation.
Mob Assault Videos Surface on Social Media
Following the allegations, villagers allegedly detained both youths, tied them up, and physically assaulted them in public. Videos of the incident later surfaced on social media and are now being examined by investigators.
Soumya Ranjan Swain later succumbed to his injuries during treatment, while Om Prakash Rout was rescued and admitted to hospital for medical care.
Police said a special investigation team has been formed to identify additional individuals visible in the viral videos and determine the exact sequence of events leading to the violent assault.
Protests Erupt Outside Police Station
The incident sparked tension in the area late Thursday night, with family members of the deceased and local residents staging protests outside the police station demanding swift action.
Security personnel were deployed near the police station and surrounding areas to maintain law and order and prevent further unrest.
Five Arrested, Investigation Continues
Police have so far arrested five persons in connection with the mob assault case. Efforts are continuing to trace and identify others allegedly involved in the violence.
Investigators are also examining the complaint filed by the woman and all circumstances related to the incident.
Odisha Chief Minister Orders Strict Action
Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed concern over the incident and directed Odisha Director General of Police Y B Khurania to take strict action against those responsible for the mob violence.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure justice and stated that incidents of mob violence should not be allowed to recur in the state.
Further investigation is underway into both the mob assault and the allegations raised in the complaint filed by the woman involved.
