Bhubaneswar, 13 July (H.S.): Tikiri Sarpanch Chameli Ojha from Mahakalapada block of Odisha’s Kendrapara district on Monday launched an indefinite hunger strike at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar, demanding disciplinary action against the Mahakalapada Block Development Officer (BDO) and the local Inspector-in-Charge (IIC).

Ojha alleged that she was subjected to misbehaviour at the Mahakalapada BDO office on June 11 when she had visited the office in connection with official work. She claimed that the situation escalated following an altercation, after which she was taken into police custody and subsequently arrested.

The elected representative alleged that she was treated unfairly and that official authority was misused against her. She has demanded strict action against both the BDO and the IIC, along with an impartial inquiry into the circumstances leading to her arrest.

Speaking during the protest, Chameli Ojha said that her only concern was the development of her panchayat and that she had no personal demands. She alleged that she faced mental harassment and physical assault during the incident, but no action has been taken against those responsible.

“I am continuing this hunger strike to seek justice. The district administration and the Odisha government should clarify why no proper investigation has been conducted despite the availability of evidence. Since the FIR does not mention the names of the IIC or the BDO, I demand that both officials be suspended and an impartial inquiry be initiated into the matter,” Ojha said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda