Former OSAP Constable Climbs Mobile Tower In Dhenkanal, Demands Reinstatement

Dhenkanal: A former Odisha Special Armed Police (OSAP) constable on Saturday climbed atop a mobile tower in front of the Town Police Station in Dhenkanal district and threatened to commit suicide, alleging years of harassment and neglect over his demand for reinstatement in service and financial assistance for his ailing mother’s treatment.

The youth was identified as Rudra Narayan Das of Sogar village under Kamakhyanagar police station limits in Dhenkanal district.

According to reports, Rudra climbed the tower on Saturday, triggering panic and a tense situation in the area. Fire services personnel reached the spot and efforts were underway till the last report to bring him down safely through negotiations.

Sources said Rudra was appointed as a constable in the OSAP in 2018. However, during his training period, he reportedly fell ill and was advised medical rest by doctors. After recovering and rejoining duty, he was allegedly dismissed from service.

Since then, Rudra has reportedly been approaching the district administration, departmental authorities and even the Chief Minister’s office seeking reinstatement, but without success.

He also claimed to have approached the court for justice but could not continue the legal battle due to financial constraints. In desperation, he had earlier walked from Dhenkanal to Bhubaneswar in an attempt to meet the Chief Minister and had also met senior battalion officials in Dhenkanal, alleging that his grievances remained unheard.

Rudra stated that he is the only educated son of his poor and ailing parents and is unable to afford their medical treatment. He further claimed to have written letters to the President, Governor, Prime Minister, Chief Minister, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the district administration seeking permission for euthanasia.

The situation remained tense as officials continued efforts to persuade him to come down safely.