Probe Begins Into 'Sex Racket' At Bhubaneswar-Based Divyang Training Centre

Bhubaneswar: The State Commission for Persons with Disabilities has launched an investigation into the alleged sex racket and sexual harassment of inmates at the All Odisha Orthopedically Handicapped Welfare Association- a training centre for Divyang persons at Palaspalli in the city.

The chairperson of the Commission, Sulochana Das who took suo motu cognizance of the media reports over the sex trade allegations, today visited the centre and questioned the inmates and officials for around 10 minutes. However, she refused to comment on the matter as the investigation is underway.

Besides, police have also launched a manhunt to nab the accused after registering a case in this connection.

"Based on the complaint of some women, we have registered a case and formed a special squad to nab the accused. Accordingly, we have carried out multiple raids in and outside the city," Bhubaneswar DCP Umashankar Das said.

"I don't want to disclose the locations where the raids were conducted as the investigation is in progress,” he added.

On the other hand, the Minister for Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disability, Ashok Panda assured strict action against the accused.

"The department has nothing to do with the probe. Police are investigating the allegations as it is a criminal offence. Let the probe findings come. If anyone from the department is found guilty in the case, action will be definitely initiated against him", Panda said.

It is alleged that a high profile sex racket was operated from the city-based training centre for persons with disabilities. The shocking incident came to fore after a video containing the immoral activities went viral on social media.

An official of the training centre has lodged a complaint at Airport police station alleging that secretary of the government-run centre was operating the flesh trade. The complainant further alleged that the accused used to hire women from outside and engaged them in the business. Sometimes, the inmates of the centre were also allegedly forced to involve in the illegal activities.