Odisha Administrative Officer Booked for Cruelty Towards Wife, Newborn

An Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) officer has been booked for allegedly subjecting his wife and their newborn child to neglect, mental harassment, and cruelty, police said on Thursday.

The officer faces charges under Section 85 (cruelty), Section 351(2) (criminal intimidation), and Section 3(5) (criminal act by several persons with common intention) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Additionally, he has also been charged under provisions of the Dowry Prohibition Act, following a formal complaint lodged by his wife.

The complainant, who is an engineer working with the Odisha government, alleged that the officer inflicted prolonged emotional trauma and failed to provide care and support to her and their newborn. She further accused him of dowry-related harassment, prompting her to seek legal redress.

Police confirmed that a case has been registered and an investigation is underway. “We have received the complaint and filed the case under appropriate sections. The matter is being looked into seriously,” said a senior official.

The case has sparked strong reactions, particularly as it involves two state government officers. Women’s rights activists have called for a fair and speedy probe to ensure justice is delivered.