Odisha Villagers Protest Over Alleged Police Mistreatment

In Odisha's Cuttack, villagers gathered outside the Baranga police station, protesting the allegedly harsh treatment of Rakesh Behera, who they claim suffered custodial abuse. Behera had filed a complaint regarding his missing wife, which led to this incident, officials reported on Tuesday.

Following Behera's complaint, a woman's remains were discovered in the Kathajodi riverbed. Police allegedly pressured Behera to recognize the body as his wife's, resorting to force when he resisted. This reportedly resulted in his hospitalization in Cuttack, though it emerged later that his wife was alive, living in New Delhi.

Cuttack police, led by DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, have launched an investigation under CCTV scrutiny. Initial claims by the woman's family, who misidentified the body, were found inaccurate after confirming her existence. Behera's condition remains stable as inquiries continue.

(With inputs from agencies.)