Bhubaneswar: A criminal case has been registered against suspended Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) Dinkrishna Mishra and four other police officers in connection with the alleged harassment of Army Major Guruvansh Singh and his friend, Ankita Pradhan, at Bharatpur police station, Bhubaneswar. The Crime Branch has taken swift action following the incident.
The Commissionerate Police have launched an investigation into the case. Acting on the orders of Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania, the Chandka police station has filed a case regarding the initial assault. On the night of 14th September, a manhunt was initiated to apprehend the suspects who attacked Major Singh and Ms Pradhan on Pathargadia Road.
National Commission for Women Intervenes
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has expressed grave concern over the incident. A week after the occurrence, the NCW has demanded a detailed report from DGP Khurania on the steps taken by the Commissionerate Police, with a deadline of three days for submission.
Shocking Allegations Emerge from Ankita Pradhan
In a recent development, Ankita Pradhan, the friend of Army Major Guruvansh Singh, has made serious accusations against the personnel of Bharatpur police station. She has alleged that she was sexually assaulted while in custody. Ms Pradhan claimed that she was physically attacked, with male officers removing her undergarments and subjecting her to obscene acts.
Speaking through tears, Ms Pradhan recounted the ordeal that unfolded on the night of the incident. She alleged that the station house officer, Dinkrishna Mishra, removed her trousers and engaged in inappropriate behaviour. She described how the officers, including male and female constables, violently restrained her, tying her hands and legs before subjecting her to physical abuse.
Ms Pradhan’s harrowing account also included allegations that the IIC attempted to rape Major Singh, compounding the severity of the case.
Suspensions and Investigations Follow
Following the public outcry and media coverage, five police personnel have been suspended. The NCW has registered a case and issued a notice to DGP Khurania, demanding swift action and transparency in the investigation.