Row in Kantabanji: Lady IIC’s husband accused of thrashing locals in drunken rage

Tension flared in Kantabanji on Tuesday night after locals alleged that Aravind Mohapatra, husband of Kantabanji IIC Rashmita Behera, assaulted and abused people in an inebriated condition.

According to eyewitnesses, Mohapatra, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, went on a rampage inside the town, allegedly beating up residents without provocation and hurling abuses at them. He is also accused of misusing his wife’s position by summoning a police vehicle and flaunting authority to intimidate people.

The alleged high-handed behavior sparked outrage among locals, who staged a protest and later gheraoed the police station late into the night. The agitating crowd also confronted the SDPO and the IIC, demanding strict action against Mohapatra.

According to sources, this is not the first time Mohapatra has created chaos in the town; he has reportedly been involved in similar unruly incidents on multiple occasions in the past.

As per the complaint, Mohapatra hurled abuse when members of four families were munching ‘jhal mudji’ at a roadside shop at around 9.30 pm. He even thrashed some women.  

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Sources said the situation was brought under control only after Mohapatra reportedly apologised to the public for his behaviour. However, resentment continues to simmer in the area as no case has yet been registered against him, despite widespread demands from residents.

Meanwhile, no comments could be obtained from senior police officials in connection with the incident.