Odisha police informed the Orissa High Court on Tuesday that it would soon establish a standard operating procedure (SOP) for police regarding appropriate behaviour towards army personnel at the police stations.

The government placed its point while the high court on Tuesday was hearing a PIL concerning the manhandling of an Army captain and his fiancée. The police also made it clear that they are examining the modalities for the SOP.

Odisha police came under severe criticism after an Army captain of the 22 Sikh Regiment and his fiancee were manhandled by police at Bharatpur police station when they came to complain of road rage. The incident occurred on the night of September 14 and September 15.

Following public outcry and the Indian Army’s displeasure over the issue, Odisha police ordered a crime branch inquiry into the alleged manhandling case, and even a judicial commission is probing the matter. It has also placed five police personnel, including the inspector of Bharatpur police station, under suspension. Later, the issue reached the high court.

The Indian Army had also sought the intervention of the Chief Justice of Orissa High Court on the issue of the manhandling of the serving Army Officer and his fiancée at the police station. It urged the Chief Justice that the case be impartially investigated and prompt action be taken against those responsible.

The next hearing will take place after four weeks.