Five Held in BJD Corporator Exploitation Case

Bhubaneswar: In a case that has stirred widespread outrage and calls for accountability, Laxmisagar police have arrested five close associates of BJD corporator Amaresh Jena for allegedly helping him escape after serious allegations of sexual exploitation were filed against him by a 19-year-old woman.

The survivor has filed a formal complaint stating that she was sexually exploited by Jena under the false promise of marriage. The incident dates back to June 2023, when she first met the corporator during a social event while she was still a minor. According to the complaint, Jena, who is married, began contacting her, gifted her a mobile phone, and built a relationship by promising to divorce his wife and marry her.

The complaint further reveals that the survivor became pregnant in February 2024 and was allegedly forced by Jena to undergo an abortion. In April, she was taken to Puri, where she was reportedly subjected to abuse and threats. Jena allegedly pressured her to remain silent and to leave Bhubaneswar.

The police have registered the case under Sections 64(2)(m), 89, 296, and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The emotional toll on the survivor has been severe. In a shocking development, she has threatened to self-immolate if justice is denied, drawing urgent attention from both the public and authorities.

Following the complaint, five individuals were arrested for allegedly sheltering Jena and obstructing police investigation. Their bail petitions have been rejected, and they have been remanded to Jharapada Jail.

Meanwhile, the search for Amaresh Jena continues. With mounting pressure from the public, civil society, and political circles, Bhubaneswar police have intensified efforts to locate and arrest the accused. Citizens and activists have united in demanding swift and transparent justice for the survivor.