BHUBANESHWAR / NEW DELHI – Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has ordered a judicial probe into the alleged custodial torture and sexual harassment incident at Bharatpur Police Station. The probe will be headed by Justice Chittaranjan Das, who is expected to submit his report within 60 days. The High Court has also been requested to expedite the criminal investigation under its supervision.
The incident came to light following a complaint lodged by Captain Gurvansh Singh Gosal, an officer from the Sikh Regiment of the Indian Army. Captain Gosal’s complaint, which gained widespread attention on social media, details harrowing accounts of illegal detention, severe assault, and sexual harassment by police officers.
According to Captain Gosal, he and his female friend, a lawyer, arrived at Bharatpur Police Station in the early hours of September 15 to file a complaint against a group of miscreants who had assaulted them. Instead of registering their complaint, the police allegedly detained Captain Gosal and subjected him to harassment. His female friend was reportedly physically and sexually assaulted by multiple police officers.
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In response to the allegations, five police personnel from Bharatpur Police Station have been suspended. The state government has assured strict action against those found guilty.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the state’s commitment to justice and the rule of law. “The state government respects the Indian Army and is fully concerned about the dignity, safety, and rights of women,” he said. “We will ensure that all those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice.”
The incident has sparked outrage across the state, with various political leaders and public figures demanding swift action. Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik called for a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe and a judicial inquiry into the incident. The opposition party has also announced a Bhubaneswar bandh on September 24 to protest against the incident.
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Captain Gosal recounted the traumatic experience in his complaint: “We went to the police station seeking help, but instead, we were subjected to unimaginable torture. My friend was physically and sexually assaulted by the officers. This is a gross violation of our rights and dignity.”
The judicial probe, led by Justice Das, will investigate the allegations and submit a detailed report within 60 days. The High Court’s supervision of the criminal investigation aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the process.
The Odisha government has reiterated its commitment to taking stringent action against all individuals involved in the incident. The state police have also arrested the youths accused of misbehaving with Captain Gosal and his friend on the night of September 15.