Four held for assaulting journalist in Odisha

The Odisha police on Monday arrested four individuals, including a minor, in connection with the brutal assault of a journalist in the state’s Bolangir district, which happened on May 25.

Journalist Bijay Pradhan was allegedly thrashed while attempting to report on irregularities in a government-run housing scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in the Loisingha area. In a viral video of the incident, Pradhan was seen being kicked and dragged by several men, even as he tried to protect himself.

The accused, identified as Ajay Sahu, Tiken Sahu, Surya Sahu, and a minor, are said to be relatives of the Loisingha block chairman. Police have confirmed that the arrests were made following an FIR filed by Pradhan, who sustained injuries during the assault. It's unclear so far whether the minor was arrested or detained.

According to reports, Pradhan had been investigating alleged corruption in the allocation and construction of houses under PMAY when the attack took place. PTI quoted the police as saying the accused “allegedly snatched Pradhan’s mobile phone, microphone (boom) and other equipment”. They “also tied his hands and assaulted him in front of villagers”.

Authorities have launched a probe into both the assault and the corruption allegations linked to the housing scheme. NDTV quoted a senior police officer as saying that the police “suspect that the contractor involved in the guard wall construction may have played a role in instigating the assault” and that his “involvement is being thoroughly probed”.

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