Politics heats up in Odisha over alleged assault on ASO by Governor’s son

The political heat soared in Odisha on Saturday over the alleged assault on an Assistant Section Officer (ASO) by Odisha Governor Raghubar Das’s son Lalit Kumar and five others at Raj Bhavan in Puri on July 7.

Odisha Yuva and Chhatra Congress members staged a protest in front of the Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar demanding action against the accused. As per reports, police have detained some protestors during their demonstration today.

“A case should be registered against the Governor’s son and he should be arrested for assaulting a government employee. Odisha Yuva and Chhatra Congress will hit the streets over the incident. We will take up the matter in Assembly and if required our members will stage a protest against the Governor,” said senior Congress leader Tara Prasad Bahinipati.

Similarly, the Opposition BJD sought justice over the matter from the Chief Minister.

“Despite FIR, no action has been taken by police against the accused. Home and General Administration departments are under the Chief Minister. He should ensure justice,” said BJD leader Pratap Deb.

Notably, victim Baikuntha Pradhan’s wife Sayoji Pradhan has lodged a complaint at Puri Sea Beach police station against Lalit Kumar for manhandling her husband with five others.

“The Governor’s son called my husband to his room and assaulted him with five of his associates. He also threatened to kill him. All our family members are scared over the incident. I demand justice for my husband,” said Sayoji.

In response, the BJP assured that necessary action would be taken after an investigation into the matter.

“The matter will be investigated and law will take its own course of action,” said BJP spokesperson Dilip Mallick.

However, no comments could be obtained from the Governor’s son and police officials on the allegations.

Later in the day, the wife of the concerned ASO along with the representatives of the employees’ association reportedly met the Governor.  After meeting the Governor, the wife of the concerned ASO, said, “The Governor called us and we met him and gave all the details; the Governor has assured us to give justice; we are waiting for justice."