Bhubaneswar, Jun 3: The tragic killing of Soumya Ranjan Swain amid mob violence in Balianta has raised serious questions about police response and possible conspiracy.

On May 7, a call was made to the 108 ambulance service regarding an accident near Ramachandrapur Kaj at 11:06 AM. By 11:36 AM, the ambulance reached the site.

However, the caller informed the driver that two injured young women had already been taken to the hospital in private vehicles. Meanwhile, Soumya was being brutally assaulted by locals, tied up and beaten in public view.

Also read: Crime Branch Nabs Another Accused In Balianta Soumya Murder Case; Arrest Count Rises To 18

This sequence of events has triggered suspicion. Why was the ambulance turned away? Who was the caller, and was there a deliberate attempt to prevent medical help from reaching Soumya?

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) team is investigating whether a larger conspiracy was at play.

Investigation Underway

Four suspended police personnel, who were present during the mob assault, have appeared before NHRC. Their failure to control the violence is under scrutiny, with their statements being recorded.

A suspended woman home guard has also been questioned. The NHRC is probing what measures, if any, were taken by the officers to stop the crowd from attacking Soumya.

On the third day of inquiry, the young woman who had accused Soumya of attempted sexual assault appeared before NHRC. Soumya’s friends Nishikant and Gopi also testified, along with the 108 ambulance driver who reached the scene. Dr Lakshmidhar Behera, who conducted Soumya’s post-mortem, has provided crucial medical details to the team.

The investigation continues to unravel disturbing facts, highlighting lapses in law enforcement and raising concerns about mob justice.

The NHRC’s findings will be critical in determining accountability and ensuring justice in this high-profile case.