Bankura, 22 November (H.S.): A youth was allegedly assaulted by a police officer in Bankura’s Ranibandh police station area on charges of theft, sparking protests by locals and BJP workers. The tension escalated on Saturday when BJP members blocked the road in protest, prompting the police to resort to lathi-charge. Twelve people, including two district secretaries and a mandal-level functionary of the BJP, were detained.

As per information, the victim, Sujal Sahis, works as a cleaner in police officers' quarters. He also worked in the quarters of SI Shubham Rai of Ranibandh police station. Two days ago, cash was reported missing from the SI's room, following which suspicion fell on Sujal. Allegedly, on Friday, SI Shubham Rai summoned Sujal, scolded him, and then took him to 12 Mile Forest and severely beat him with a belt.

Sujal said that he repeatedly pleaded innocence, but the officer continued to punch, slap, and beat him with a belt. Upon returning home injured, he informed his family and local residents about the incident. Following this, on Friday night, angry people protested by blocking the Khatra-Jhilimili state road at Ranibandh More.

BJP workers continued their protest by blocking the road on Saturday afternoon. Seeing the situation spiraling out of control, the police resorted to lathi charge and detained several BJP leaders and workers. The police confirmed the detention of a total of 12 people.

Sujal filed a written complaint against SI Shubham Rai. An officer from Ranibandh police station confirmed the incident and said that an investigation has been initiated. However, the officer accused of assault has not commented on the matter.

Locals are demanding strict action against the accused police officer to prevent recurrence of such incidents. The police have assured that the complaint will be investigated impartially.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey