Balasore: Following the directive of the Odisha Police DG, a team of the State Human Rights Protection Cell (HRPC) today initiated investigation into the death of the minor boy inside a dhaba and subsequent public ire on a police inspector at Baliapal of Balasore district.
A five-member team of HRPC led by Additional SP Satyanarayan Das and DSP Ranjeet Nayak reached Baliapal today and began investigation into the death of the minor boy at the dhaba near IDCO Chhak. The team also visited the village of the deceased boy where his family members were also interrogated.
Additional SP Satyanarayan Das said, “All angles are being considered for fair probe into the incident. Investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances which led to the death of the minor and also whether anyone else is responsible for the incident.”
Meanwhile, Odisha Police Officer’s Association has condemned the public attack on Baliapal IIC. Citing concerns over the incidents of public outrage and hostility towards police officials, the association has urged the State government to make provisions for security of the police.
This apart, the association has also demanded the government for separate appointments for law and order and investigation apart from filling up of vacant police posts.
Bijay Dalei, a minor boy from Uluda village was found hanging under mysterious condition at the dhaba on Friday morning. Following the incident, tension erupted at the place as locals ransacked and torched the dhaba and the owner’s house.
Baliapal IIC Prabhu Kalyan Acharya who went to the spot to investigate the matter was thrashed by irate locals and family members of the deceased.
Locals alleged that the minor boy was murdered and demanded immediate arrest of the accused. After a complaint was lodged in connection with the incident, Balasore Superintendent of Police transferred Baliapal IIC to the district police headquarters.
Kumud Sahoo, a co-villager of the deceased Bijay said, "People welcome the HRPC probe into the incident. Since Bijay belonged to backward class, the HRPC should ensure fair probe and suggest the government to provide adequate compensation for his family."