Odisha BJP MLA Santosh Khatua Booked for Alleged Derogatory Remarks Against BJD Leade

A criminal case has been registered against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Santosh Khatua after a complaint was filed by Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Lekha Samantasinghar, accusing him of making derogatory and offensive remarks against her.

The incident reportedly took place during a recent political exchange, prompting Samantasinghar to approach the Mahila Police Station in Bhubaneswar. Following the complaint, police booked Khatua, who represents the Nilgiri constituency in Balasore district, under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jagmohan Meena, Khatua has been charged under BNS Section 75(2) for sexual harassment, Section 79 for using offensive words, gestures, or acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman, Section 296 for obscene acts or songs in public, and Section 356 for defamation.

“We have registered the case at the Mahila Police Station, and further investigation is underway,” DCP Meena confirmed.

The allegations have sparked political tensions between the ruling BJD and opposition BJP in Odisha. While BJD leaders have demanded strict action, BJP sources indicated that they would respond after reviewing the contents of the complaint.

The development has drawn public attention, with women’s rights groups urging the authorities to handle the matter with sensitivity and uphold legal due process.

As the probe continues, all eyes are on the police investigation to determine the veracity of the claims and the appropriate legal course of action.