Bhubaneswar, July 13 (UDN): Tikiri Gram Panchayat Sarpanch Chameli Ojha of Kendrapara district on Monday began an indefinite hunger strike at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar, demanding disciplinary action against the Mahakalapada Block Development Officer (BDO) and the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Mahakalapada police station over an alleged incident that took place last month.
File photo
Ojha alleged that she was subjected to humiliation and misconduct while visiting the Mahakalapada BDO’s office on June 11 for official work. According to her, an altercation at the office was followed by police intervention, after which she was taken into custody and subsequently arrested.
Addressing supporters at the protest site, the elected Sarpanch claimed that despite repeatedly seeking justice, no action has been initiated against the officials she has accused. She alleged that she was subjected to mental harassment and physical assault and questioned the lack of an impartial investigation into the incident.
“My only demand is justice. I have undertaken this indefinite hunger strike seeking action against the BDO and the IIC. Despite evidence being available, no fair investigation has been conducted. I will continue my protest until appropriate action is taken and an impartial inquiry is ordered,” Ojha said.
She has also demanded the suspension of both officials pending an independent investigation, alleging misuse of official authority and irregularities in the case registered against her.
The protest has drawn the attention of supporters, panchayat representatives and members of local self-government institutions, many of whom have gathered at Lower PMG in solidarity with the Sarpanch and called for a transparent inquiry into the matter.
As of Monday evening, neither the district administration nor the Mahakalapada police had issued an official statement responding to the allegations or the demands raised by the protesting Sarpanch.
The protest has reignited discussions over the relationship between elected Panchayati Raj representatives and administrative officials, with observers calling for an impartial investigation to establish the facts and ensure accountability.