Bhadrak SI Axed for Sending Civilian to Act as Inspector
Bhadrak, – October 10, 2025: In a startling breach of protocol, Sub-Inspector Kartik Jena of Bhadrak Rural Police Station has been suspended for directing a civilian to impersonate a police officer and conduct an investigation.
The incident unfolded in Rasikabaga village under Kalei panchayat, where Piyush Ranjan Panda, a resident of Dhusuri in Dhamnagar block, posed as an Inspecting Officer.
Villagers grew suspicious when Panda arrived on a motorcycle instead of an official vehicle and gave inconsistent responses while probing a case involving a woman. Locals detained him and alerted authorities.
Panda, who had been informally assisting SI Jena with computer-related tasks, was arrested and booked under impersonation charges. He is scheduled to be produced in court today.
Bhadrak ASP Arup Abhisekh Behera confirmed that Panda had no official ties to the police department and acted as a middleman. SP Manoj Raut ordered Jena’s suspension for dereliction of duty and misuse of authority.
The Odisha Police emphasised its commitment to accountability and warned against unauthorised delegation of responsibilities. The case has sparked concern over internal oversight and the need for stricter enforcement of departmental protocols.
