Banapur (Khordha): Tension gripped Banapur in Khordha district after a youth allegedly died in police custody, with his family accusing the police of custodial violence.

The deceased has been identified as Tofan Nayak, a resident of Bhimpur village under Banapur police limits. According to reports, Nayak was picked up from his residence by Banapur police in connection with a local dispute.

Family members alleged he was taken to the police station and subjected to severe physical assault, resulting in critical injuries.

As his condition worsened, Nayak was shifted to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar for treatment. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Following the incident, tension escalated at the hospital premises as family members and locals staged protests, expressing strong resentment over the alleged police action. The family accused the police of brutally beating Nayak to death.

The incident has triggered outrage in the area, with locals demanding a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the youth’s death.

Police have yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the allegations. Further investigation is underway.