Four Detained in Odisha Over Alleged Forced Religious Conversion and Assault

In Odisha's Dhenkanal district, a man was allegedly beaten and publicly humiliated on accusations of forced religious conversion. Police have detained four individuals following a complaint filed by the victim's wife. The incident, which occurred in the Parajang police station area, saw the victim allegedly attacked by a mob of 15-20 people. According to the complaint, the group falsely accused the man of religious conversion, assaulted him with bamboo sticks, publicly insulted him, and paraded him through the village. The family also claims the mob forced him to bow before a religious site. An investigation is underway, with several witness statements recorded. While four people have been taken into custody, police are questioning other suspects. Authorities have denied an initial report that the victim was forced to drink drain water. Legal action will be taken against those found guilty.