Choudwar police station ‘custodial death’: IIC suspended after Odisha CM’s order

The alleged custodial death at Choudwar Police Station in Cuttack has taken a serious turn with the suspension of Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) ACP Bishwaranjan Sahu. The action came following the directive of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi after disturbing allegations surfaced that the victim, picked up in a bike theft case, was subjected to third-degree torture before his death.

Earlier, Sub-Inspector Niranjan Goda and OAPF Constable Kamal Lochan Majhi of Choudwar police station had already been placed under suspension in connection with the case.

The deceased, identified as Rasananda Nayak of Dhenkanal district, was reportedly detained by the police in connection with a vehicle theft. While in custody, he allegedly endured severe beatings. Unable to withstand the assault, he is believed to have ended his life by hanging himself inside the station lockup bathroom.

However, Rasananda’s family has rejected the police’s version of suicide. His younger brother alleged that he was brutally thrashed with plastic pipes on his legs, waist, and other body parts in the lock-up of the station. 

“Unable to bear the torture, my brother killed himself. This is not suicide, but murder in custody,” he told reporters.

Also Read: RPF accused of torturing two brothers in Sundargarh

The shocking incident has triggered outrage among locals and civil rights groups, who are demanding a judicial probe and strict action against all officers responsible. Human rights activists say the case once again highlights the disturbing trend of custodial violence in Odisha, questioning the accountability of law enforcement.