Clash between two journalist groups in Talcher; 3 arrested

Tension flared up in Talcher after a clash broke out between two groups of journalists near Hatatota Level Crossing on Saturday night. As many as three journalists have been arrested in connection with the case.

According to SDPO Bharat Sahu, the altercation escalated into a physical confrontation, leading to police intervention.

Journalist Rabindra Seth lodged a complaint alleging that he was attacked during the incident. Acting on the complaint, Talcher police arrested fellow journalist Manil Maharana on charges of assault. Additionally, a female journalist and her husband were also taken into custody in connection with the incident, SDPO Sahu confirmed.

Interestingly, the female journalist had previously filed a complaint against Rabindra Seth at the local police station.

Must Read: OTV journalist assault case in Bolangir: Two officials of Electricity Dept arrested & suspended

Following the incident and the arrest of journalist, Manil Maharana, the Odisha Television Network (OTV) has terminated his employment. The news channel clarified in a statement that it does not support or encourage any form of criminal or disruptive behavior.

Earlier in January this year, Kantabanjhi electrical SDO Jagannath Pati and Muribahal electrical engineer Chinmaya Sahu were arrested in connection with the assault involving three journalists including the representative of OTV in Bolangir. Subsequently, both Pati and Sahu were suspended and sent to jail.