Bhubaneswar: The Laxmisagar Police have arrested a local youth political leader on charges of sexually assaulting a young woman at an OYO hotel in the Bomikhal area of the city after enticing her with various promises.

The arrested suspect has been identified as Sashikanta Lenka alias Alok, a resident of the Tihudi area in Niali block, where he currently serves as a Samiti Member.

According to police sources, Sashikanta allegedly brought the victim to Bhubaneswar by offering enticing promises. He then lodged her at an OYO hotel in Bomikhal and forcibly raped her.

Following the incident, the victim lodged a formal complaint at the Laxmisagar Police Station. Police registered a case and initiated a detailed investigation, which included conducting a medical examination of the survivor.

After preliminary investigation and medical reports corroborated the allegation, the police arrested Sashikanta on Saturday. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing.

The arrest of an active political representative on sexual assault charges has sent shockwaves across the Niali region, triggering widespread local discussion and outcry.