A senior police officer in Odisha is under scrutiny after a video clip of him instructing personnel to "break their legs" during a protest went viral. The incident occurred while police were guarding a barricade outside Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's residence during a protest by Congress party workers.
The officer's specific instruction to "break their legs" was captured on video and quickly spread across social media platforms. The statement drew immediate criticism from various quarters, with many questioning the appropriateness and legality of such an order. Concerns were raised about potential human rights violations and the excessive use of force by law enforcement.
In response to the widespread criticism, the police officer claimed that his statement was taken "out of context". He did not elaborate on the intended meaning of his words but implied that the video clip did not accurately reflect the situation or his instructions. However, the explanation has done little to quell the controversy, and demands for further clarification and investigation have persisted.
The incident comes at a sensitive time, with increased focus on police conduct and accountability. Instances of alleged custodial violence and high-handedness by law enforcement officials have sparked public outrage and calls for reforms. Just recently, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had directed police officers to treat citizens with empathy. In light of these concerns, the viral video has further intensified the debate on police behavior during protests and public gatherings.
The incident has also triggered political reactions. Opposition parties have seized on the video to criticize the state government and question its commitment to upholding democratic principles and protecting citizens' rights. Demands have been made for an independent inquiry to determine the full context of the officer's statement and whether it constituted an abuse of power. The Indian Youth Congress has already lodged a complaint against remarks made by an RSS leader.
The Odisha police department has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. It remains to be seen whether the department will initiate an internal investigation or take disciplinary action against the officer involved. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible communication and the need for law enforcement agencies to maintain public trust and confidence.
