A day after former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik demanded a court-monitored investigation into the alleged sexual assault of an army officer’s fiancée at Bharatpur Police Station, political tensions arose between the BJD and BJP. Deputy CM Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo criticized the BJP government for the incident, stating they had suspended five police officers involved. He suggested the BJP was trying to politicize the matter, while BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal highlighted that crime branch investigations were underway for fairness. The victim shared her harrowing experience of seeking help at the police station, only to face abuse and harassment from officers instead. The situation has sparked heated political debate over accountability and law enforcement in Odisha.
Odisha News: Political Tensions Rise Over Police Misconduct
A recent incident involving the alleged sexual assault of an army officer’s fiancée at Bharatpur Police Station has sparked a heated political feud in Odisha. The controversy began when former Chief Minister and BJD leader Naveen Patnaik called for a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the matter. Following his remarks, the ruling BJD accused the BJP of incompetence, while the BJP retorted that the issue is being excessively politicized.
Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo addressed the situation, highlighting that five police personnel involved in the case had already been suspended. He assured the public that those responsible would face consequences. Singh Deo criticized the BJP for allegedly forcing Patnaik to break his long silence, stating, “It is because of the BJP that Naveen Patnaik emerged from his residence after 24 years to issue a statement.”
The BJP’s state spokesperson, Anil Biswal, defended the government’s actions, asserting that the investigation was handed over to the crime branch to ensure fairness and transparency. He also pointed out that the BJD’s previous administration had a poor record on women’s safety, with many crimes going unaddressed.
Details of the incident reveal that the victim and the army officer sought help at the police station after being harassed by a group of men. Instead of receiving assistance, the woman claimed she was verbally abused by police officers, and the situation quickly escalated. She alleged that after raising her voice, she was physically assaulted by police personnel.
This troubling incident has not only raised questions about police conduct but has also led to fierce political exchanges, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the BJP and BJD in Odisha.
Image Source: X/@KVSINGHDEO1 – Odisha Deputy CM Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo
What is the Odisha assault case about?
The Odisha assault case involves an attack on a person, and it has drawn attention for the political reactions surrounding it.
Why are the BJD and BJP clashing over this issue?
The BJD (Biju Janata Dal) and BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) are clashing because both parties have different views on the incident, with each accusing the other of using it for political gain.
What does BJP mean when they say the incident is being ‘politicised’?
The BJP argues that the situation is being used by the BJD to gain political sympathy or to distract from other issues, claiming that the focus should be on the crime itself rather than politics.
What does BJD say in response to the BJP’s accusations?
The BJD defends its actions and insists that they are focusing on justice for the victim and addressing the safety concerns in the state.
How are the authorities responding to the assault case?
Authorities are investigating the assault to ensure proper action is taken against the perpetrators, regardless of the political arguments.
 "Odisha’s Deputy CM condemns politicization of a police sexual assault case, vows accountability, and emphasizes zero tolerance for violence against women.")
