Bhubaneswar, July 9: Senior BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan walked out of Jharpara Special Jail here on Wednesday evening after being granted bail by the Khurda District Sessions Court. His release follows six days in judicial custody over charges related to the assault of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Additional Commissioner Ratnakar Sahoo.

Pradhan had surrendered to police on July 3, days after a viral video showed Sahoo being physically assaulted inside the BMC office during a grievance redressal meeting. The Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) Association launched a statewide cease-work protest demanding Pradhan’s arrest, calling him the “prime accused” in the case.

The court granted bail on Rs 30,000 bond and personal surety. The bail hearing for five other accused in the case is scheduled for July 15.

The BJP has maintained that the case was politically motivated, while opposition parties and bureaucrats have demanded stricter action to protect government officials. Pradhan’s release was met with celebrations by supporters outside the jail, including a bike rally and floral welcome.