The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Odisha BJP leader and MLA Jayanarayan Mishra, who is accused of assaulting a female police officer during a protest in Sambalpur in 2022.

A bench comprising Justices Hrishikesh Roy and S V N Bhatti rejected the plea, emphasizing the responsibility of public leaders to uphold high standards of conduct. “Those in leadership positions have to set an example for public behaviour,” the bench noted while pronouncing the verdict.

The incident occurred during a BJP protest outside the Sambalpur Collectorate, where Mishra allegedly slapped a woman police officer, leading to widespread condemnation and a police complaint.

Mishra, represented by senior advocate Maninder Singh, argued that the allegations were politically motivated. However, the court dismissed the plea, citing the seriousness of the charges.

Responding to the development, Mishra said he was unaware of the Supreme Court’s decision. He maintained that the case was a political conspiracy orchestrated by the previous BJD government to tarnish his reputation. “The allegations are baseless and aimed at silencing political dissent,” Mishra said.

The ruling has sparked a political row in Odisha. The BJD welcomed the verdict, calling it a victory for justice. “No one is above the law, and such incidents of violence, especially against women officers, must be condemned,” a party spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, the BJP has stood by Mishra, alleging that the case is part of a broader campaign of political harassment. The party vowed to continue its fight against what it termed an oppressive regime.

The case has further escalated tensions between the two major political parties in Odisha as they gear up for the upcoming elections.