Odisha Police Officer Suspended Over Forced Marriage with Minor

An Odisha police assistant sub-inspector, Amit Padhi, is suspended for allegedly forcing a minor into marriage and subjecting her to abuse. The minor's complaint led to charges under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. Padhi is absconding, while his family secured bail.

An assistant sub-inspector from Odisha Police, Amit Padhi, has been suspended following accusations of coercively marrying a minor and mistreating her, authorities said on Friday.

Police revealed that Padhi, stationed in Puri, allegedly wedded a class-10 student from Jagatsinghpur after meeting her on Facebook. He reportedly abused her post-marriage, as claimed by the girl's mother.

The incident prompted a registered complaint, causing Padhi to flee. He now faces charges under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act while efforts to apprehend him continue. Meanwhile, his family surrendered to a local court and received bail.

(With inputs from agencies.)