Bhubaneswar: Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Monday highlighted the state government’s decision to conduct both a judicial enquiry and a court-monitored Crime Branch investigation into the alleged custodial assault of an Army officer and his fiancée at Bharatpur police station as rare and a first-of-its-kind move in the country.
“The government’s decision to opt for simultaneous judicial enquiry and a court-monitored Crime Branch probe is unprecedented and marks the first instance of such an action in the country,” Harichandan stated while addressing the media.
The Law Minister further criticized the previous government, citing multiple incidents of violence and criminal mismanagement during its 24-year rule. He mentioned cases like those of Itishree, Bebina, and Madhabilata, alleging that the former administration consistently shielded wrongdoers.
Harichandan remarked, “The opposition’s criticism holds no weight, as they failed to act on issues related to law and order, women’s safety, and justice during their tenure.”
Meanwhile, the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has condemned the recent release of selective videos which it believes is within the knowledge of the police and are intended to tarnish the reputation of the victim.
BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty said, “This act of character assassination is not in line with Odia culture. We strongly condemn this and expect the investigation to proceed fairly.”
