Gamharia police station in Jharkhand’s Seraikela-Kharsawan district has reported a serious case where a woman has alleged that she was raped by a police wireless operator inside the station premises. 15 police personnel have been suspended and three people arrested after the incident was reported on November 1 and 2, 2026.
The alleged incident occurred on the night of October 29 when the woman had gone to police with a domestic dispute. The case has raised serious questions about women’s safety and accountability in police establishments.
Woman Allegedly Assaulted Inside Police Station
The police said the woman argued with her husband on October 29 evening and fearing she might be assaulted left home and went to shelter at neighbour’s house.
She then called the police for help and a police control room vehicle took her to Gamharia police station late that night.
The woman was given a room to rest and then wireless operator posted at the station Neeraj Lakra sexually assaulted her.
Allegations were brought to the notice of senior police officials and an investigation was ordered.
Wireless Operator Arrested
The police arrested the accused wireless operator after the woman gave a written complaint. On 31 October an FIR was registered under relevant provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Police also set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under Sub-Divisional Police Officer Anubhav Bhardwaj to probe the case.
The SIT investigated the circumstances of the incident and evidence was taken from the police station premises.
Two More Police Personnel Arrested
The investigation also resulted in the arrest of two more police personnel (reports say Sub-Inspector Manoj Kumar Sahu and constable Santosh Kumar Rai).
As per the United News of India report published on November 1 all three accused were sent to judicial custody.
The arrests mean investigators are looking not just into the assault but also the conduct of other people who were on duty when she was at the police station.
15 Police Personnel Suspended
Disciplinary action has been taken against 15 personnel of Gamharia police station by the district police administration. The decision was taken at a meeting of District Police Officer (DPO) with all the officers and officials of the district police here today.
The suspensions were phased: Five personnel (including the officer-in-charge) were suspended first; nine more were suspended later for negligence and failure to inform senior officers of incident in time. Other reports put earlier suspension total at six.
The suspended personnel are sub-inspectors, assistant sub-inspectors havildars and constable. They have also been transferred to police lines.
Investigation Continues
SP Manoj Swargiary reviewed the investigation and asked officials to probe into the case thoroughly.
Evidence is being gathered, the police say; further action will be taken against anyone found to have committed crime or negligence.
The incident has created public outrage because the woman had come to the police station seeking protection and help. Investigation and legal proceedings will reveal who is responsible (accused) and what role other personnel played in it.
Comments