Kendrapada: The Superintendent of Police (SP) of Kendrapada, Siddharth Kataria, on Wednesday initiated a formal investigation into allegations of custodial torture involving a mother and her son at the Talachua marine police station in Kendrapada district, two days after the incident. The victims, Annapurna Mandal (55) and her son Ananta Kumar Mandal (31), residents of Giripahi village, have accused police officers of subjecting them to severe physical abuse and humiliation.
Probe Ordered After Allegations Surface
SP Kataria stated, “I visited the police station on Wednesday to personally look into the matter. The Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Pattamundai, Sukant Kumar Patra, has been directed to examine the allegations and submit a detailed report within 48 hours. Based on the findings, appropriate action will be taken against the accused officers.”
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to the complaint, the trouble began on Sunday when Manoranjan Mandal, Annapurna’s husband, lodged a complaint at the Talachua marine police station against his wife and son over a family dispute. On Monday, police summoned Annapurna and Ananta for questioning. The duo alleged that the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of the station, Sandhyarani Jena, along with another officer, subjected them to third-degree torture.
The victims claimed that police officers disrobed Annapurna and locked both of them inside a toilet for four hours. They were reportedly beaten severely, resulting in multiple injuries across their bodies. Following the ordeal, both were admitted to the Rajnagar Community Health Centre (CHC). A medical examination revealed injury marks on Annapurna’s hands and on Ananta’s neck, hands, legs, and back.
Annapurna further alleged that police seized Ananta’s mobile phone and forced both of them to sign blank papers under duress.
Police Denials and Official Response
When contacted, IIC Sandhyarani Jena denied all allegations, stating that the claims were baseless. However, SDPO Sukanta Kumar Patra confirmed, “We are investigating the allegations made by Annapurna and her son. Proper action will be taken against the officials after the inquiry is complete.”
The SP has assured that the investigation will be thorough and transparent, with a report expected within the next 48 hours. The case has drawn attention to custodial rights and police conduct in the region.
