Balasore: Bhograi police station IIC was suspended for alleged custodial excesses on Thursday, hours after Parliamentarian Pratap Sarangi raised the issue with Balasore SP Raj Prasad.
Disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against the IIC, Sriballav Sahu, for gross misconduct and dereliction of duty.
DGP YB Khurania issued the suspension order over alleged physical and mental harassment of Kartik Bhol, a microphone operator from Jayarampur village, who was allegedly detained and chained inside the police station for two days without any formal case registered against him over a motorcycle dispute involving Manmath Dutta, an opera staff member.
“Pending disciplinary proceedings, Sriballav Sahu, IIC of Bhograi Police Station, Balasore district, has been placed under suspension with immediate effect due to gross misconduct and dereliction of duty,” the order said.
The matter came to light when Bhol’s wife informed local BJP leader Ashish Patra, who raised it with the Sarangi during his visit to Bhograi. Sarangi visited the station, found Bhol still chained, and contacted the Balasore SP via video call to show the detainee’s condition.
The SP ordered Sahu to release Bhol. Following which, he was immediately sent to Jaleswarpur Community Health Centre (CHC) and later shifted to district headquarters hospital as his condition worsened.
After reviewing the video evidence, the DGP directed senior police officials to conduct a probe. Following investigation, Sahoo was suspended pending further inquiry.
Sahu, however, justified chaining Bhol by citing a staff shortage.
DIG (Eastern Range) Satyajit Naik called the incident a grave violation, stating that preliminary findings confirmed gross misconduct, and a detailed investigation was underway to determine further action.
Speaking to the media, Sarangi claimed that Bhograi police station is notorious for such violations of law. “A similar case was reported in the past when another person was chained in a similar manner. They nab people in minor disputes but allow culprits in major crimes to go free. This particular case is proof of action without a case, and punishment without investigation,” the MP added.
