A two-member team from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Delhi is set to launch a five-day investigation starting Monday into the recent lynching of a railway constable on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar. The NHRC took suo motu cognizance on May 11 of the death of Soumya Ranjan Swain, 32, who was tied to a pole and brutally assaulted by a mob at Balianta on May 7 following allegations that he attempted to rape a 22-year-old woman. The lynching triggered widespread outrage, particularly as it occurred in the presence of some police personnel.
Investigation Details
The NHRC team, comprising Rajendra Singh and Avinash Kumar, will visit Odisha from June 1 to 5 to conduct a spot inquiry into the allegations of lynching in the presence of police personnel, as well as the alleged misuse of subordinate police staff for domestic work by senior officers. The commission stated this in a letter to the police commissioner, Khurda collector, superintendent of police, and railway superintendent of police on Sunday.
Examination of Officers and Civilians
The NHRC has sought the presence of officers and civilians linked to the incident during its investigation. The team will examine them at the government guest house or circuit house in Bhubaneswar. The commission has also directed the state government to produce all relevant documents related to the case.
Family's Response
Swain’s family members have expressed their intention to present all facts before the NHRC. “We hope the NHRC conducts a fair probe and recommends strict action against those responsible,” said Swain’s uncle, Ajay Kumar Dash. The bereaved family has been demanding action against the police commissioner and deputy commissioner, as well as the registration of an FIR against then Balianta IIC Anil Parida, who was transferred, and four police personnel who were suspended on May 10.
On Saturday, the family staged a demonstration at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar, expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing crime branch investigation. “We urge the government to hand over the case to the CBI. My son’s death was a pre-planned murder. The girl made false accusations and instigated the mob to kill my son. She should be booked for murder,” said Swain’s mother, Kabita.
Arrests Made
Altogether, 17 men have been arrested in connection with the lynching. While the Balianta police previously made 11 arrests, the crime branch later took six more into custody.
