Bhubaneswar, May 27: Bolangir Police have apprehended the prime accused, Gajendra Dalai, in the assault case of a journalist that took place in Bolangir district. The incident, which drew widespread condemnation from media organizations and civil society, occurred on Saturday and quickly gained media attention after a video of the brutal attack went viral on social media platforms.
According to police, the journalist, Bijoy Pradhan, who works as a reporter for a local television channel, had gone to Kulthipali village in the Bolangir district to investigate and report on alleged irregularities in the construction of a guard wall under a government scheme. During his ground-level reporting, he was allegedly confronted by a group of individuals suspected to be involved in the irregularities.
The situation took a violent turn when the accused reportedly snatched Pradhan’s mobile phone, boom microphone, and other recording equipment, preventing him from continuing his work. Eyewitnesses stated that Pradhan was then forcibly tied up and brutally assaulted in full public view. The entire act was recorded and later circulated widely on social media, triggering outrage and calls for immediate action.
Following the viral video and mounting public pressure, police launched an investigation and identified the main accused in the case. Acting swiftly, a special team was deployed, and the prime suspect was arrested on Tuesday, confirmed a senior police officer. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the accused yet but assured that all those involved in the incident will be brought to justice.
"This is a serious matter involving freedom of the press. We are taking it with utmost seriousness and will ensure that the culprits face the full force of the law," said the officer, adding that additional arrests may follow based on the investigation.
The Odisha Union of Journalists and several media bodies have condemned the assault and demanded strict punishment for the perpetrators. They have also called for stronger protection mechanisms for journalists working in field conditions, especially in rural and remote areas.
Meanwhile, Bijoy Pradhan is reportedly recovering from the physical and emotional trauma caused by the attack. The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of journalists and the increasing threats they face while performing their duty to inform the public.
