NHRC investigates alleged assault of Dalit sarpanch in Odisha

A three-member delegation from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched a four-day ground investigation in Kendrapada, Odisha, regarding the alleged assault of Chameli Ojha, a Dalit woman sarpanch of Tikhiri gram panchayat.

The investigation follows allegations made by Ojha that she was subjected to caste-based slurs, physical assault, and misbehaviour by police and the Mahakalapada Block Development Officer (BDO) on June 11. Ojha claims the incident occurred after she questioned officials regarding pending payments for development works and alleged corruption within the panchayat.

The NHRC team, including Deputy Superintendent of Police Isam Singh, has begun recording statements from local police officials, the BDO, and block staff. The inquiry also includes visiting Ojha at her residence, interviewing villagers, and meeting with medical professionals at the district headquarters hospital. Investigators are expected to examine official records, eyewitness accounts, and social media video footage.

In response to the incident, the administration and police filed counter-charges against Ojha, including attempt to murder and obstructing a public servant. Ojha was previously arrested from her hospital bed but has since been released on bail.