Shocking Suspension: Sonitpur Police Officer Under Fire for Lapses in Journalist Assault Case

Sonitpur, Assam – In a development that has sent ripples across the journalistic community and law enforcement agencies in Assam, a police officer in the Sonitpur district has been suspended for alleged significant lapses in the ongoing Journalist Assault Probe. The decision, confirmed by officials on Friday, follows widespread complaints of negligence in the enquiry process of a brutal attack on two journalists. This incident has ignited a fervent demand for transparency and accountability, putting the spotlight firmly on the integrity of the investigative process.

The Disturbing Incident and the Initial Journalist Assault Probe

The harrowing incident occurred on June 29 in the Dhekiajuli area. Two journalists, identified as Bimaljyoti Nath and Bipul Phoyel of the Guwahati-based satellite channel ND 24, were reportedly ambushed and severely injured by unidentified miscreants. The attack transpired as they were returning from covering a story on alleged illegal mining activities, a sensitive issue in the region known to be fraught with danger for those who expose such illicit operations. The nature of their injuries underscored the viciousness of the assault, leaving both journalists in a serious condition.

Initial reports from the Journalist Assault Probe indicated that the journalists had been targeted specifically because of their investigative work. Illegal mining, an activity often linked with powerful and unscrupulous elements, poses a significant threat to environmental sustainability and local communities. Journalists brave enough to shed light on these practices often find themselves in perilous situations, and this incident serves as a grim reminder of the risks involved in their profession.

Officer Suspended: Lapses in the Journalist Assault Probe

The suspended officer, Charu Rajbongshi, who served as the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the Raikhasmari police outpost, was initially closed to reserve duty on Wednesday before the suspension order was issued. Sonitpur Additional Superintendent of Police Madhurima Das confirmed the action, emphasizing that the suspension was a direct consequence of alleged investigative failures.

The core of the allegations against Rajbongshi revolves around the handling of the Journalist Assault Probe. While four individuals were initially arrested in connection with the case, a significant point of contention arose when three of them were subsequently released on bail. This decision fueled public discontent and raised serious questions about the thoroughness of the investigation. The most glaring lapse highlighted was the continued abscondence of the main accused, Dilip Nath. The failure to apprehend the primary suspect, coupled with the swift bail granted to others, led to accusations of an inadequate and possibly compromised investigation.

Official sources revealed that the release of the three accused on bail further intensified the accusations of insufficient investigation on Rajbongshi’s part, ultimately leading to his closure to reserve and subsequent suspension. The son of the main accused is currently in judicial custody, a detail that adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.

Public Outcry and Demands for Justice in the Journalist Assault Probe

The incident and the subsequent developments have triggered widespread protests and condemnation from various organizations, including the Dhekiajuli Press Club and the All Bodo Students Union. These groups have vehemently demanded stringent action against the perpetrators and a transparent, unbiased resolution to the Journalist Assault Probe. Their calls underscore the collective outrage over the assault on press freedom and the perceived dereliction of duty by certain elements within the law enforcement.

The press, often referred to as the fourth pillar of democracy, plays a crucial role in upholding transparency and accountability. Attacks on journalists are, therefore, seen as direct assaults on democratic principles. The unified voice of protest from different organizations highlights the gravity of the situation and the public’s expectation for swift and uncompromised justice.

The Ongoing Investigation and the Pursuit of Justice

Additional SP Madhurima Das stated that the investigation in the matter is ongoing and that further details will be shared in due course. She also confirmed that the car used by the main accused, Dilip Nath, has been recovered from near Rowta in the neighboring Udalguri district on Wednesday morning. The search for Dilip Nath continues relentlessly, with law enforcement agencies determined to bring him to justice.

It is noteworthy that Dilip Nath reportedly claims association with a news portal and is known for filing numerous RTI applications in various government departments. This aspect of the case might introduce further complexities into the Journalist Assault Probe, potentially suggesting deeper motivations behind the assault or the alleged investigative lapses.

The Journalist Assault Probe remains a high-profile case, drawing attention from across the nation. The outcome will not only determine the fate of those involved but will also set a precedent for how such critical cases are handled in the future. The public and media alike await a resolution that upholds justice and reinforces the safety and freedom of journalists in their vital pursuit of truth.