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The Orissa High Court has taken a decisive step in the wake of a disturbing alleged sexual assault incident at a police station in Bhubaneswar, ordering the installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations across the state. This decision, stemming from the case of an Indian Army captain and his fiancée, highlights the urgency for transparency and accountability within law enforcement institutions. The incident, which occurred on September 15, involved the alleged assault of the captain's fiancée by five police officers, including the inspector, at the Bharatpur police station. The court, taking suo motu cognizance of the case, expressed deep concern over the incident, questioning the circumstances surrounding the couple's detention and subsequent arrest. The high court's directive for CCTV installation underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability within police stations. The Supreme Court in 2020 had already mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in offices of investigative agencies, including police, to ensure transparency and protect the rights of accused individuals. This directive, however, appears not to have been implemented comprehensively in the state.
The alleged assault of the Army captain's fiancée has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice. The woman, a restaurant owner, alleged that she was subjected to physical and sexual abuse by the police officers. She described being beaten, kicked, and dragged through the corridors of the police station before being molested by a police inspector. The Army captain, in his FIR, claimed he was illegally detained while his fiancée was assaulted. The incident has cast a shadow on the state's law enforcement system and raised serious concerns about the safety of citizens within police stations. The installation of CCTV cameras, while a crucial step towards greater transparency, is not a singular solution. The high court has also emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring that all necessary facilities are available at police stations to protect individuals from abuse.
The Odisha government, under pressure to address the public outcry, has taken swift action. The officers involved in the alleged assault have been suspended, and criminal cases have been filed against them. The state government has also ordered a judicial probe by a former judge of the Kolkata High Court to examine the sequence of events and circumstances leading to the incident. The probe will examine the role of individuals, groups, and authorities involved and suggest measures to prevent future occurrences. The one-man commission has been given 60 days to submit its report. This probe is expected to provide a thorough and independent examination of the incident, potentially leading to systemic changes within the state's police force. While the installation of CCTV cameras and the judicial probe are important steps, the ultimate goal is to create a safe and accountable environment for all citizens within the state's law enforcement system.
Source: Army officer case: Odisha HC pulls up govt for not installing CCTV in police station