What Happened to the BJP Workers in the OAS Officer Assault Case?
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Synopsis
A disturbing incident in Bhubaneswar has led to the arrest of multiple BJP workers for their alleged involvement in the assault of senior OAS officer Ratnakar Sahoo. The incident, which occurred during a public meeting, has sparked protests and calls for accountability from both political and administrative bodies.
Key Takeaways
- Two more BJP workers arrested in OAS officer assault case.
- Previous arrests include three individuals linked to the incident.
- BJP suspends five members for involvement in the assault.
- The incident triggered widespread protests across Bhubaneswar.
- The Odisha Administrative Service Association shows support for the assaulted officer.
Bhubaneswar, July 1 (NationPress) The Commissionerate Police apprehended two additional individuals on Tuesday in relation to the attack on a high-ranking Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) officer and Additional Commissioner of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), Ratnakar Sahoo, which took place on June 30. The incident occurred within the BMC premises and involved BJP workers allegedly connected to senior leader Jagannath Pradhan.
The two recently arrested suspects are Sanjeev Mishra from the Jharpada area and Sachikant Swain from Laxmisagar in Bhubaneswar. Previously, authorities detained three individuals—Aparupa Narayan Rout alias Jeevan, Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, and Debashis Pradhan—for their roles in the assault on Monday evening.
In response to the incident, the BJP suspended five of its party members, including the corporator Aparup Narayan Rout, Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, Debashis Pradhan, Sachikant Swain, and Sanjeev Mishra.
According to the complaint filed by Sahoo, around 11:30 AM on Monday, during a public grievance meeting attended by officers, staff, and citizens at the BMC office, six to seven alleged BJP workers entered the premises without authorization and assaulted Sahoo after questioning him about a phone conversation with BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan.
The incident sparked significant backlash after a video of the assault circulated widely on social media. Following the event, BJD corporators and BMC staff protested with a road blockade on the busy Janpath Road, demanding swift action against the perpetrators.
On Tuesday, BMC staff continued their demonstrations, donning black badges and ceasing work. Following the attack on Sahoo, the Odisha Administrative Service Association (OASA) expressed support for him and announced plans for a mass leave starting Tuesday. However, after discussions with Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, the association postponed its protest, receiving assurances of rigorous measures against those responsible.
Meanwhile, OAS and ORS (Odisha Revenue Service) officers across eight districts in the state initiated an indefinite mass leave to protest the assault on the BMC Additional Commissioner.
Point of View
I believe that political accountability is paramount. The shocking assault on an OAS officer highlights the urgent need for a thorough investigation and swift justice. This incident not only raises questions about political conduct but also about the safety of public servants. We must ensure that such actions are not tolerated in our democratic framework.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of the BJP workers?
The arrests were made in connection with the assault on OAS officer Ratnakar Sahoo during a public meeting at the BMC office.
How many BJP workers have been arrested so far?
As of now, five BJP workers have been arrested for their involvement in the assault.
What was the reaction from the BMC staff?
BMC staff protested by wearing black badges and ceasing work, demanding immediate action against the assailants.
What assurances did the Chief Minister provide?
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi assured the OASA that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the assault.
Are the protesting officers still on leave?
OAS and ORS officers across eight districts have initiated an indefinite mass leave in protest against the assault.
