A state government employee on deputation at Odisha Raj Bhawan has accused Lalit Das, son of Governor Raghubar Das, of physical assault.
The incident allegedly occurred during President Droupadi Murmu's visit to Puri last week.
Baikunthanath Pradhan, an assistant section officer from the state parliamentary affairs department, lodged a complaint with Governor's Secretary, Saswat Mishra.
Pradhan claimed that Lalit Das, accompanied by five others including personal security officers, assaulted him at the Puri Raj Bhawan on the night of July 7.
President Murmu was present at Puri Raj Bhawan from the afternoon of July 7 until the morning of July 8 for the Rath Yatra festival.
Pradhan has been on duty since July 5, overseeing preparations for the President's visit.
In his complaint, Pradhan detailed the alleged assault.
"On July 7, around 11:45 PM, while I was in the office, the personal cook of Odisha Governor, Aakash Singh, approached me, stating that Lalit Kumar wanted to meet me at Suite No-4. Upon my arrival, Lalit Kumar began slapping me and used abusive language. Feeling threatened, I ran and hid behind the Annexe building. However, Lalit Kumar’s PSOs found me, dragged me back to Room No-4 via the lift, and continued the assault," Pradhan recounted.
Pradhan further alleged that Lalit Kumar and his associates slapped, punched, and kicked him, even twisting his left ankle.
He claimed that Lalit Kumar threatened him with murder if he disclosed the incident.
Secretary to the Governor, Saswat Mishra, did not respond to messages seeking comment on the matter. Lalit Das was also unavailable for comment.
An aide of the Governor dismissed the allegations as a conspiracy, stating, "The issue is between the Raj Bhawan's cook and the complainant. There have been previous issues with Pradhan. The Governor's son is not involved."
The incident has sparked controversy and raised questions about the conduct of those associated with high-ranking officials. As investigations unfold, the Raj Bhawan is under scrutiny, with demands for a thorough and impartial inquiry into the matter.
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