Rourkela: In a fresh development in the much-talked-about Rourkela Circuit House arms case, suspended BJP leader Prakash Paswan, who was arrested on Thursday, will be taken into police remand for two days for further interrogation.Police had sought four days’ remand from the court, citing the seriousness of the case and the need for detailed questioning. However, the court granted two days’ police remand.
The case has been unfolding since August 14, when police seized a firearm and live ammunition from the Rourkela Circuit House and arrested several persons, including alleged professional criminals. The investigation has since brought several new facts to light.
Following Paswan’s arrest, Rourkela Police arrested two more persons in connection with the case. The arrested persons have been identified as BJP Mandal office-bearer Jan Nayak and Amit Nayak. Both were subsequently forwarded to court.With these fresh arrests, the total number of persons arrested in the Circuit House case has risen to 12. Police sources indicate that more arrests may follow as the investigation progresses.
Meanwhile, the investigation appears to be widening, with some government employees reportedly coming under the scanner. Legal action against them may be initiated shortly if their involvement or negligence is established during the probe.Police are also examining the role of certain employees entrusted with the management and security of the Circuit House. The possibility of action against them is reportedly being assessed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The case has assumed greater significance with the expanding scope of the probe and the increasing number of arrests. Police are continuing to examine the alleged links among the accused and other persons connected with the Circuit House episode.
