Bhubaneswar (Special Correspondent, The Fact Bureau): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep concern over the mob assault and subsequent killing of a youth in Balianta in Khordha district on Thursday.
The Chief Minister has directed the police to take strict action against those responsible for the incident and conduct a thorough investigation to ensure justice.
CM Majhi’s Strict Directives to Police
The Chief Minister spoke with Odisha’s Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania and emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation into the case.
He instructed the police to ensure that all those involved in the assault are brought to justice and to prevent the recurrence of such mob violence in the future.
Balianta Mob Killing: Incident Overview
The incident occurred on Thursday when two youths were allegedly assaulted by villagers in Balianta over accusations of misbehavior with two women.
One of the youths, Soumya Ranjan Swain, a railway constable, succumbed to his injuries during treatment, while the other youth sustained injuries and is currently undergoing medical treatment.
Arrests and Investigation By Odisha Police
As of now, five individuals have reportedly been arrested in connection with the incident. A special team has been formed by the police to identify other suspects who were seen in viral videos related to the assault.
Authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that everyone involved is apprehended, said sources.
Police Commissioner Calls the Incident Heinous
Police Commissioner Suresh Dev Datta Singh condemned the actions of the mob, labeling the incident as a “heinous crime.” He stated that the public had taken the law into their own hands, resulting in the brutal assault of the youths.
Singh highlighted that, despite the police’s quick response following a distress call at 11:02 am, lawlessness on the part of civilians would not be tolerated.
“If the public continues to take the law into their own hands, strict action will be taken,” Singh warned, reaffirming the police’s commitment to uphold the law.
CM Majhi Stresses Law Enforcement
Chief Minister Majhi directed the police to take the strictest possible action against those involved in the mob violence and to maintain the rule of law across the state.
He emphasized that such incidents should not be allowed to happen again and called for the strict enforcement of the law to ensure the safety of citizens.
Women’s Commission to Visit Balianta
In light of the incident, CM Majhi also discussed the matter with Shovaana Mohanty, chairperson of the Odisha State Women’s Commission. The Women’s Commission has scheduled a visit to Balianta to review the situation and inquire into the details of the case.
The visit by the Women’s Commission is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that the rights and safety of women are protected, especially in light of the allegations made by the women involved in the incident.
