Why Did Naveen Patnaik Express Anguish Over the Brutal Murder of a Woman Constable?
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Synopsis
In a heart-wrenching incident that has shocked Odisha, former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed profound sorrow over the murder of traffic constable Subhamitra Sahoo. This tragic case raises critical questions about police effectiveness and women's safety in the region, urging a call for urgent reforms.
Key Takeaways
- Subhamitra Sahoo was a young woman constable whose tragic murder has shocked the community.
- Naveen Patnaik expressed deep concerns about police effectiveness and women's safety.
- The case raises serious questions regarding the handling of critical investigations.
- There is a need for urgent reforms in the Home Department and police force.
- Violence against women remains a pressing issue in Odisha.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 18 (NationPress) The president of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed profound sorrow regarding the tragic passing of 25-year-old woman traffic constable Subhamitra Sahoo. She was reported missing from Bhubaneswar on September 6 and discovered murdered ten days later.
In a message on X, Patnaik shared that the incident had left him "deeply shocked and pained," raising significant concerns about the effectiveness of the police and the Home Department in managing such crucial incidents.
“A young female constable serving under the Commissionerate Police vanishes from the state capital, only for her body to be recovered ten days afterward. This scenario is both heartbreaking and alarming. I am deeply saddened by Subhamitra’s demise. It raises serious inquiries regarding the operational capabilities of the police,” Patnaik stated.
He further expressed that if the police cannot locate their own personnel within ten days, it is hard to envision the safety of ordinary citizens in such a scenario.
Additionally, he mentioned media reports where the victim’s father had identified a suspect early in the investigation, yet decisive action was not taken, resulting in this tragic conclusion.
Patnaik linked this incident to a broader pattern of violence against women in Odisha, recalling previous cases such as the gang rapes at Gopalpur and Baliharchandi, warning that without urgent reforms in the operations of the Home Department and state police, more such tragedies could follow.
“The Home Department must promptly awaken from its slumber. Without accountability and reform, more families will continue to suffer the loss of their daughters. The safety of women cannot be compromised,” he emphasized in his post.
Notably, Subhamitra’s husband, a fellow constable, Deepak Kumar Rout, strangled her on September 6 due to financial disputes, including her request for Rs 20,00,000 to conduct their marriage ceremony as per Vedic traditions. He later concealed her body in a jungle near the Ghatagaon area of Keonjhar district.
Point of View
This tragic incident highlights a concerning trend regarding the safety of women across India. It underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform within law enforcement agencies. The response to such heinous acts must be swift and decisive to restore public trust and ensure the safety of all citizens.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Subhamitra Sahoo?
Subhamitra Sahoo, a 25-year-old traffic constable, went missing on September 6 and was found murdered ten days later.
Who is Naveen Patnaik?
Naveen Patnaik is the president of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and a former Chief Minister of Odisha.
What are the concerns raised by Naveen Patnaik?
Patnaik raised concerns about the effectiveness of the police and Home Department in handling critical cases, particularly regarding women's safety.
What connection did Patnaik make regarding this incident?
Patnaik connected this incident to a larger pattern of violence against women in Odisha, citing previous cases and calling for urgent reforms.
What was the motive behind Subhamitra Sahoo's murder?
The murder was allegedly committed by her husband, Deepak Kumar Rout, due to disputes over financial matters.
