Odisha: Woman Alleges Prolonged Sexual Abuse By Father After Self-Immolation Attempt; Police Arrest Accused
Investigators examine digital evidence, including chat records; police say probe is expanding and others may be questioned if evidence emerges: Reports
BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Police on Saturday arrested the father of a young woman who allegedly attempted self-immolation in Berhampur after she accused him of prolonged sexual abuse, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread attention.
According to police, the arrest was made after the survivor recorded her statement while undergoing treatment and investigators gathered preliminary evidence supporting the allegations.
Berhampur Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Alok Jena said the police registered a case on their own after taking suo motu cognisance of the incident, given its seriousness.
“The survivor has alleged that she was sexually abused by her father. During the investigation, she disclosed details that led us to seize her mobile phone and collect other evidence. Based on the material gathered so far, prima facie allegations have emerged against her father, who has now been arrested and produced before the court,” Jena told reporters.
The survivor was initially admitted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur before being shifted to SUM Hospital in Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment. Police said her statement was recorded as part of the investigation.
Investigators are also examining digital evidence, including chat messages recovered during the inquiry. While officials confirmed that the chats form part of the investigation, they declined to disclose their contents, citing the ongoing probe.
Jena said investigators have also received additional information during the course of the inquiry and are verifying the possible involvement of other individuals.
“If evidence establishes the involvement of any other person, appropriate legal action will be taken. No one found involved will be spared,” he said.
Police further said the accused, a teacher by profession, had retained the survivor's educational certificates and refused to return them after she reportedly disclosed the alleged abuse to others. The claim is part of the ongoing investigation and has not yet been tested in court.
The self-immolation attempt occurred at Basudev Nagar in Lochapada under the jurisdiction of Nimakhandi Police Station in Berhampur.