Bhubaneswar, July 3: Senior BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan has been arrested in connection with the assault on BMC Additional Commissioner Ratnakar Sahoo, police said on Thursday evening.

Pradhan arrived at the DCP office in Bhubaneswar on Thursday evening, as calls for his arrest intensified over the alleged assault on BMC Additional Commissioner Ratnakar Sahoo. The visit drew large crowds of supporters, creating a tense atmosphere outside the DCP office premises.

“I have said it before, and I say it again—the attack on BMC official is deeply saddening and condemnable. I strongly denounce it. Keeping the interests of the state and our government in mind, I express my respect for the law. If my arrest can resolve the issue, I am ready to cooperate,” Pradhan said before entering the DCP office here.

The Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) Association has been demanding Pradhan’s arrest, alleging his involvement in the June 30 attack, where a group of men—reportedly BJP workers—stormed the BMC office and physically assaulted Sahoo during a grievance hearing.

So far, five individuals, including BJP corporator Jeevan Rout, have been arrested in connection with the incident. The BJP has suspended several party workers involved, but Pradhan has denied any direct role, stating he respects the law and is ready to cooperate with the investigation.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with BMC staff, opposition leaders, and civil society condemning the attack. The OAS Association launched a statewide protest, with many officers going on mass leave, disrupting public services across Odisha.

Pradhan’s appearance at the DCP office is seen as a response to growing public and political pressure. Police officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and further action will be based on evidence.

The case has become a flashpoint in Odisha’s political landscape, raising concerns about bureaucratic safety, law enforcement, and political accountability.

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