BJD Alleges Rise in Custodial Deaths, Accuses Police of Excessive Use of Third-Degree Methods

The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Odisha government, alleging a rise in custodial deaths and incidents of police excesses across the state. The party claimed that while the police have failed to control crime and ensure justice for victims, instances of alleged third-degree torture in police custody are increasing.

BJD Raises Concern Over Custodial Deaths

Addressing a press conference at Shankha Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, BJD leaders expressed concern over what they described as the growing use of custodial violence against ordinary citizens. The party alleged that police brutality inside police stations has crossed all limits and is causing widespread public anxiety.

According to the party, Odisha has witnessed a significant increase in custodial death cases, with reports indicating that ten people have allegedly died in police custody during the last two years.

Questions Raised Over Recent Police Actions

The BJD referred to several recent incidents, including a case in which a man who had approached a police station to report his missing wife was allegedly subjected to custodial torture and is currently battling for his life.

The party also cited another incident in a coastal police station where alleged misconduct by police personnel triggered public outrage. BJD leaders claimed that transferring officers after public protests was insufficient and demanded stricter accountability.

Kabisuryanagar Custodial Death Sparks Political Row

A major focus of the party’s criticism was the recent custodial death reported from Kabisuryanagar in Odisha. BJD alleged that a differently-abled youth was detained and subjected to custodial torture for several days, leading to his death.

The party questioned why action was allegedly not taken against those involved in illegal mineral smuggling activities and instead focused on what it described as the harassment of innocent individuals.

Allegations of Illegal Minor Mineral Smuggling

The opposition party claimed that Ganjam District has emerged as a hub for illegal minor mineral smuggling, alleging that thousands of truckloads of minerals are transported outside the state every day.

BJD further alleged that rising criminal activities, including multiple murder cases reported in recent weeks, indicate a deterioration in the law-and-order situation in the district.

Law and Order Situation Under Scrutiny

The party criticized the state government over the overall law-and-order situation, claiming incidents of mob violence, serious crimes, and alleged police excesses have increased during the last two years.

According to BJD leaders, public confidence in the policing system has been affected by recurring reports of custodial violence and deaths.

Demand for Independent Investigation

The opposition demanded an impartial investigation into the Kabisuryanagar custodial death case and called for strict action against those found responsible.

The party warned that if a fair inquiry is not conducted and accountability is not fixed, it may approach the National Human Rights Commission seeking intervention in the matter.

Government Yet to Respond

The Odisha government and police authorities have not yet issued a detailed response to the allegations made by the BJD. The custodial death case has meanwhile intensified the political debate over policing, accountability, and law and order in the state.