Suspended Odisha Police SI arrested in minor girl marriage and abuse case

Jagatsinghpur police on Wednesday arrested suspended Sub-Inspector Amit Padhi, who had been absconding for the past four months in connection with a case involving the marriage of a minor girl and allegedly subjecting her to physical and mental torture.

According to reports, a four-member special team of Jagatsinghpur police apprehended Padhi from outside the state. He is expected to be brought to Jagatsinghpur later today.

Padhi, a native of Balasore, was serving as a Sub-Inspector in Puri when the incident came to light. Allegedly, he came into contact with the minor girl through social media and went on to marry her. Later, he was accused of inflicting severe physical and mental harassment on her and eventually driving her out of the house.

Following the allegations, the Puri Superintendent of Police placed him under suspension. Despite police efforts, Padhi had been on the run for the last four months before being tracked down and arrested.

Police sources said the accused will be produced in court after necessary formalities are completed. Further investigation into the case is underway.

Recently, a viral audio clip surfaced where the investigating officer (IO) Dilip Kandi supposedly threatened the victim’s mother instead of arresting the accused, sparking outrage and calls for justice.

While the audio clip seems to clearly suggest threats, the officer has denied making any such remarks when questioned, stating that he never intimidated the victim’s family.