Official statement or press release from the Odisha Crime Branch

Indian Army Officer, Fiancée Allege Custodial Assault, Sexual Harassment by Odisha Police; 5 Cops Suspended

Sep 20, 2024, 07:53 AM

An Indian Army officer, Captain Guruvansh Singh, and his fiancée, Ankita, have alleged custodial assault and sexual harassment by police personnel at Bharatpur Police Station in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The incident reportedly occurred on September 15, following a road rage altercation. The couple claims they were mistreated, with Ankita alleging she was disrobed, kicked, and sexually assaulted by the police. The medical report accessed details bruises, nasal bleed, and other injuries. The Odisha Police have transferred the case to the Crime Branch and suspended five police officers involved. The Odisha High Court has granted bail to Ankita and expressed concern over the alleged abuse. Ankita has been shifted to AIIMS for further treatment. The National Commission for Women and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik have demanded a full judicial inquiry into the incident.