Jajpur: In an incident of police high-handedness, a youth was rendered critical after he was allegedly beaten by a police ASI at Jajpur town police station for arriving late Saturday morning.
The accused cop was Sudhansu Rout, ASI of Jajpur Sadar police station.
The victim was identified as Maheswar Mahanta of Sitaleswar near Jajpur. Following the alleged assault, Mahanta had to be immediately rushed to Cuttack-based SCB Medical College and Hospital.
According to sources, there was a rift between the family of Mahanta and his neigbhour Bijay Rout over some issue. Things took an ugly turn after Bijay lodged a complaint against Mahanta.
Based on the complaint, Rout had called both parties to the police station. However, Mahanta turned up a bit late due to some work.
The ASI was so infuriated by Mahanta’s late arrival that he allegedly thrashed him with a lathi.
Mahanta’s family members demanded strict action against Rout.
“The ASI thrashed my son for no reason. We demand stringent action against such police officials who harass the public,” said Maheswar’s father Krushnachandra Mahanta.
While the ASI was not immediately available for comment, a police official refuted the allegations.
“The case of both the parties has been registered and an enquiry is being conducted on the allegations. Further action will be taken based on the findings and after questioning the youth upon his return from the hospital,” said the official.
PNN
