BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan has been arrested for assaulting a senior OAS officer.

By Aniket Chakraborty July 4, 2025 Arrow INDIA NEWS

The victim, Ratnakar Sahoo, is the Additional Commissioner of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation.

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Pradhan's staff allegedly dragged Sahoo out of his office and physically assaulted him.

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Massive outrage followed, with OAS officers across Odisha going on mass leave.

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Jagannath Pradhan surrendered, denying direct involvement but accepting arrest for “greater good.”

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“If my arrest restores peace and services, I will cooperate,” he told the media.

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The incident sparked fears of disruption to Bahuda Yatra and Sunabesha festivities.

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BJP claims the case is being politicised to defame the party and state leadership.

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Six people, including Pradhan, have now been arrested in the case.

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Odisha’s administrative circles remain tense as the investigation unfolds.

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