A lawyer from Bhubaneswar, who is also the fiancée of an Army captain, has alleged horrific abuse by the Bhubaneswar police. The woman, who runs a restaurant in the city, claims she was sexually harassed while in police custody at Bharatpur Police Station on September 15.
Incident Details
The woman and her fiancé visited the police station after being attacked by a group of men late at night while returning home. She alleges that she was violently assaulted by female police officers. According to her statement, two female officers tying harrasing her and a male officer sexually harassed her. She also accused the station's inspector making obscene gestures, and molesting her.
Police Response and Allegations Against the Couple
The police claim that the woman and her fiancé, an Army officer, were intoxicated and had attacked officers on duty, causing damage to the station’s computers and furniture. An FIR was filed against the couple, and both were arrested. However, the woman’s fiancé has also filed a formal complaint against the police officers, accusing them of illegal detention and assault. The case has prompted outrage, leading to an internal investigation.
Following the woman’s allegations and the public outcry, five police officers, including the inspector, have been suspended.The Odisha government has ordered CID into the case.
The National Commission for Women takes suo motu cognisance of allegations made by an Army officer and his lady friend regarding their custodial abuse by Odisha Police. A formal letter has been sent to the DGP, requesting an action taken report within 3 days. Urgent disciplinary…— NCW (@NCWIndia) September 17, 2024
The National Commission for Women has also stepped in, seeking a report on the actions taken by the police. Meanwhile, the woman was released on bail on Wednesday and has since received medical treatment for her injuries at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bhubaneswar.
Inputs by Agencies
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