Nisha Maharana’s obscene dance in Bolangir: Questions raised over police presence at venue

An allegedly obscene dance performance during a jatra programme in Odisha's Bolangir district has sparked controversy after visuals surfaced showing police personnel watching the show from close proximity. The visuals came to notice on Friday and related to a stage performance by Nisha Maharana in the Chandanbhati area under the jurisdiction of Bolangir Sadar police station.

The incident took place on January 12 during a public stage show, where the Chandanbhati Police Outpost In-Charge, ASI Ranjit Pradhan, was reportedly present below the stage. He was allegedly seen smiling and watching the performance along with members of the audience.

Role Of Police Officer Under Scrutiny

According to available information, the jatra programme was inaugurated by the Chandanbhati Police Outpost In-Charge officer himself. Subsequently, he allegedly remained seated among the audience and watched Nisha Maharana’s ‘semi-nude’ dance. The conduct of the officer has raised serious questions, particularly as no immediate objection or intervention was reportedly made despite the nature of the performance.

After the matter came to the notice of the Bolangir Superintendent of Police, an FIR was lodged at the Sadar police station in connection with the incident.

Arrests Made, Raids Conducted

Following directions from the Bolangir SP, police registered a case and arrested two organisers of the programme, who were later forwarded to court and subsequently released on bail. In a parallel development, a separate team led by a lady DSP conducted raids at several locations in Bhubaneswar on Thursday in search of Nisha Maharana, reportedly.

Earlier Incident Adds To Concern

Reports also indicate that another woman performer, identified as Lovely, had staged an obscene dance at the same location just two days prior to Nisha Maharana’s performance. A video of that show has since gone viral, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the events.

Also Read: ‘Dance was on organisers' instructions’: Nisha Maharana breaks silence amid arrest speculation

Meanwhile, no reaction could be obtained from ASI Ranjit Pradhan regarding the allegations. Reports suggest that departmental action is likely to be initiated against him for alleged negligence of duty, as questions continue to mount over the police officer’s presence and conduct at the event.