Balasore, June 19: Sriballabh Sahu, the Inspector-In-Charge (IIC) of Bhograi Police Station in Balasore district, has been suspended by the Director General of Police (DGP), Odisha for alleged custodial torture and dereliction of duty.

The incident pertains to the inhuman treatment of an accused, Kartik Bhol, who was reportedly chained and handcuffed and kept in the police station for two days without any formal case being registered.

The controversy began over a minor dispute involving the exchange of a motorcycle. Kartik's family claimed that police officials failed to conduct a proper investigation and instead imposed severe punishment without due process.

The incident came to light after Kartik’s wife approached local MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi. Reacting swiftly, the MP visited the police station, examined the accused’s condition firsthand, and immediately informed the Superintendent of Police via a live video call.

Reportedly outraged by the sight of the accused in chains, MP Sarangi demanded urgent action, leading to the IIC’s suspension. The officer allegedly justified his actions by citing a lack of staff, which has been criticized as an unacceptable excuse for human rights violations.

The matter is under further inquiry, and the state police department has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on custodial misconduct. Meanwhile, the victim’s family is seeking accountability and justice for the mistreatment Kartik endured.

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