Kendrapara: Five staff members of a private school in Odisha’s Kendrapara district have been arrested in connection with the alleged sexual exploitation of a Class 7 student. The accused include four teachers and a peon. Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The alleged incidents took place at a private educational institution in the Rajkanika police station area of the district.
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Accused Identified
Police identified the arrested individuals as:
Tapan Kumar Prusty (37) – Teacher
Bishwaranjan Sahu (31) – Teacher
Rashmiranjan Biswal (47) – Teacher
Minati Bar (34) – Female Teacher
Rashmiranjan Rana (37) – School Peon
Allegations and Complaint
According to police sources, the girl’s father lodged a complaint at Rajkanika Police Station on Saturday, alleging that his minor daughter had been subjected to repeated sexual exploitation within the school premises. The complaint further stated that threats were allegedly issued to prevent the child from disclosing the matter.
Investigators said the student was allegedly intimidated and warned of serious consequences if she informed anyone. Due to fear, she reportedly remained silent for some time. It has also been alleged that a female teacher assisted the other accused.
Case Registered Under BNS and POCSO
Rajkanika Police have registered Case No. 54/2026 under Sections 64(2), 70(2), 70, 49, 351(2)(3), 3(5), 4, and 6 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita along with relevant sections of the POCSO Act.
The accused have been arrested and are being produced before the appropriate court. Police stated that further investigation is underway.
Senior Officials Review Investigation
Kendrapara Superintendent of Police Siddharth Kataria and District Police Headquarters DSP Saroj Sahu visited the area to review the situation and monitor the progress of the investigation.
The SP termed the allegations serious and stated that strict legal action would be taken if the charges are substantiated. Officials added that anyone else found involved would also face action as per law.
A scientific team examined relevant locations as part of the ongoing probe.
Child Welfare Committee Involvement
The District Child Welfare Committee (CWC) has recorded statements from the minor and her family members. According to sources, the student had earlier informed her mother about the alleged incident, after which she stopped attending school.
Family members initially did not approach the police due to social concerns. Later, following consultation with the Child Welfare Committee and subsequent developments, a formal complaint was filed.
Note: The identity of the minor has been withheld in accordance with legal provisions under the POCSO Act.
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