Bhubaneswar : In a major development that has stirred Odisha’s political landscape, Amarresh Jena alias Baya, the corporator of Ward No. 45 in Bhubaneswar, has been arrested in connection with a rape case. Jena was apprehended by police from Nilgiri in Balasore district and brought to Bhubaneswar for further legal procedures.
Following a medical examination at Capital Hospital, he was produced before court and subsequently sent to jail. While in custody, Jena spoke to the media claiming innocence, saying, “The truth will come out at the right time. I have been falsely implicated—100 percent. Archana Nag knows the truth. She has framed me.”
The arrest stems from a First Information Report (FIR) filed by a young woman at the Laxmisagar Police Station. She alleged that in 2023, while she was a minor, Amarresh Jena had a physical relationship with her, which resulted in pregnancy. The FIR further claims that Jena later threatened and intimidated her to keep silent.
The police registered a case based on her statement, recorded under Section 183 of the BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita). Despite several attempts to locate Jena, he had been absconding. Meanwhile, five individuals were arrested on charges of aiding his evasion. Intensive raids were conducted across various locations, eventually leading to his arrest.
The arrest has triggered a political upheaval. The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), in a quick response, suspended Amarresh Jena from the party. This was officially announced through a directive issued by the party leadership.
Addressing a press conference, Bhubaneswar BJD President Ashok Panda confirmed the suspension and stated, “This is an individual’s crime and will not affect the party’s image. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards such matters.”
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), however, has slammed the ruling party, accusing it of sheltering individuals accused of crimes against women. In a sharp reaction, the BJP said, “No one involved in crimes against women will be spared. The Mohan government will ensure strict action, regardless of political affiliations.”
