The Odisha government on Sunday suspended a sub-inspector, an assistant sub-inspector, and two constables, while also transferring the inspector-in-charge (IIC) of the Balianta police station for alleged inaction during a mob lynching incident on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar on May 7. The disciplinary action came a day after Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed anger over the police's mishandling of the case, in which a railway constable was tied to a pole and brutally beaten to death in public view following allegations that he had attempted to sexually abuse a woman on the road. The chief minister also handed over the investigation to the crime branch.
Details of the Suspensions and Transfers
According to a senior government official, the suspended personnel include one sub-inspector (SI), one assistant sub-inspector (ASI), and two constables who were present at the scene during the lynching. The government has also sent a proposal to discontinue the services of two home guards who were also present. Balianta IIC Anil Kumar Parida has been transferred to the Bhubaneswar urban police district headquarters, and Rashmita Behera has been appointed as the new IIC of Balianta police station.
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred on May 7 when a mob of 70 to 80 people, armed with sticks and iron rods, attacked the railway constable, identified as Swain, after allegations that he had tried to sexually abuse a woman. Despite the presence of police personnel, only three or four constables were deployed to confront the mob, and senior officers failed to intervene effectively. The outnumbered constables were unable to prevent Swain from being tied to a pole and beaten to death. Although police have arrested 11 men in connection with the lynching, they have faced sharp criticism for their alleged inaction.
Crime Branch Takes Over Investigation
On Sunday, the crime branch formally took over the investigation. An eight-member team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ratnaprava Satapathy collected case records from the Balianta police station and inspected the crime scene. Superintendent of Police (SP) Anirudha Routray will supervise the probe. DIG (crime branch) B Gangadhar told reporters, “We have taken over both cases — the sexual assault allegation against Swain, and his murder. Allegations of police negligence will also be examined.”
Family Demands Accountability
Swain’s family welcomed the crime branch probe and the suspension of the four personnel but demanded accountability from senior officers. His father, Dhusasana Swain, said, “Only lower-rung staff faced action, while seniors who failed to intervene have escaped.” The crime branch indicated it may seek custodial interrogation of suspects. Gangadhar added, “If required, we will apply for remand to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify the absconding accused. Statements of all linked to the two cases will be recorded. We are also awaiting the post-mortem and viscera reports.”
