Five Arrested in Odisha for Lynching of GRP Constable Accused of Molestation

Odisha Police have arrested five people in connection with the lynching of Government Railway Police constable Soumya Ranjan Swain, 32, in Bhubaneswar on May 7, 2026, after he was accused of molesting two women on a scooter near Bingharpur. Swain died after being beaten by a mob and was declared dead on arrival at Capital Hospital.

Police Commissioner S. Dev Datta Singh said investigators are analyzing CCTV footage, video recordings of the attack, and eyewitness statements to identify all involved. Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Meena confirmed the five arrests and said special teams have been deployed to track down additional suspects.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi ordered Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania to conduct a thorough probe and ensure strict legal action. He urged police vigilance to prevent further mob violence. State Women’s Commission Chairperson Shobhna Mohanty has been asked to meet with the two women, one of whom filed a formal complaint alleging attempted rape by Swain.

Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik condemned the lynching as 'utterly barbaric' and criticized the government for failing to maintain law and order, citing the incident's occurrence near the state capital and in apparent view of police. His party staged a protest in Bhubaneswar on May 8 over deteriorating public safety.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities reviewing digital evidence and witness accounts. The court is expected to begin hearings on remand applications for the arrested suspects within 48 hours.