Bhubaneswar, June 7: A fatal hit-and-run incident under the Jatani police limits has sparked widespread public outrage after a 60-year-old man died in a road accident allegedly caused by rash and negligent driving. Three youths were detained for questioning in connection with the case, while the motorcycle rider, identified as the main accused, was later arrested and granted bail from the police station, said Stalin Biswal, Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Jatani Police Station.
According to the report, the incident took place on the evening of June 4 on Tirimal Main Road near Ranipada village under Jatni police limits. The victim, Braja Chand (60), a resident of Ranipada village, was reportedly struck by a speeding motorcycle carrying three youths. The impact left him critically injured, and he succumbed to his injuries on the spot.
The tragic death triggered strong resentment among residents, who staged a road blockade demanding immediate action against those responsible. During the protest, villagers managed to apprehend two of the youths allegedly involved in the incident and handed them over to the police.
Upon receiving information, police personnel rushed to the scene, recovered the body, and sent it to the District Headquarters Hospital, Khurda, for post-mortem examination. Efforts were also made to calm the agitated crowd and restore normalcy in the area.
Speaking to reporters, IIC Stalin Biswal said the detained youths were questioned as part of the investigation and later released after being served notices under the relevant legal provisions. He further stated that the motorcycle rider, considered the principal accused in the case, was subsequently arrested and later released on bail in accordance with the law.
The incident has raised several questions among residents, particularly regarding whether the accused rider possessed a valid driving licence and whether any of the youths involved had previous criminal antecedents. Residents have demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into all aspects of the case.
Legal experts have also stressed the need for stringent action under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), arguing that cases involving reckless driving resulting in loss of life warrant serious legal consequences.
“The death of a person in a hit-and-run incident is a matter of grave concern and should be dealt with firmly in the larger interest of society. However, the manner in which this case has been handled appears to be quite casual,” remarked a local legal expert.
Police said the investigation is continuing and all relevant aspects of the case are being examined.
