IPS Arun Bothra’s post on Sushant Singh Rajput's death case sparks debate in Odisha

Arun Bothra, a former Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) of Odisha Crime Branch (CID-CB) and a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, became the centre of a burgeoning debate following his post on platform ‘X’ (previously known as Twitter), on Sunday.

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The social media post came in the wake of a court decision giving ‘clean chit’ to actress Rhea Chakraborty of alleged wrongdoing in connection with the suspicious death of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput.

Why Bothra's post triggered the dabate?

Bothra's commentary, which involved sharing the report of a national media, highlighted that the Mumbai Police had found them under intense scrutiny nearly four years ago. They faced unfounded allegations propagated by several TV anchors and numerous social media accounts.

The Odisha-cadre IPS officer emphasised contrary to the criticisms that the Mumbai Police conducted a professional investigation into Rajput’s case. Such unfounded statements, he noted, could not overshadow the supremacy of evidence and judicial verdicts.

Taking to his personal ‘X’ handle, Bothra wrote earlier in the day, “The #SushantSinghRajput case highlights the perils of social media vigilantes meddling in criminal investigations.'

Four years ago, countless social media accounts, egged on by TV anchors, vilified the @MumbaiPolice with baseless accusations. Now, it’s clear that the police conducted a solid, professional probe. 

People with zero idea about crime investigation can create hype with lies and slanderous comments. But ultimately, only evidence and court verdict hold weight.”

This post has raised questions regarding Bothra's motivations.

Notably, Bothra was originally in charge of the probe into the murder of former minister Naba Kishore Das. That investigation led to a series of inquiries, prompting a fresh probe by the Crime Branch. Consequently, Bothra’s remarks have sparked debate across the State about their underlying messages.

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When approached for further comments on his social media post, the senior IPS Bothra chose not to elaborate.

The #SushantSinghRajput case highlights the perils of social media vigilantes meddling in criminal investigations.

Four years ago, countless social media accounts, egged on by TV anchors, vilified the @MumbaiPolice with baseless accusations. Now, it’s clear that the police… https://t.co/ZLFVoTbWoG

— Arun Bothra 🇮🇳 (@arunbothra) March 23, 2025