# NHRC investigation of Dalit sarpanch assault in Odisha

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nhrc-investigation-of-dalit-sarpanch-assault-in-odisha
> Updated: 2026-10-06T06:18:40.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) initiated an investigation into the alleged assault and mistreatment of Chameli Ojha, a Dalit woman serving as the Tikhiri gram panchayat sarpanch in Kendrapada, Odisha.

The allegations stem from a June 11 incident where Ojha claims she was subjected to physical assault, caste-based slurs, and misbehaviour by police and the Mahakalapada Block Development Officer (BDO). Ojha asserts these actions were taken after she raised concerns regarding corruption and withheld payments for developmental works. 

While local authorities filed counter-charges against Ojha, including attempt to murder and obstruction of a public servant, the NHRC launched a four-day ground inquiry. The investigation involves recording statements from officials and villagers, visiting Ojha at her residence, and reviewing medical records and video footage.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-06: NHRC investigates alleged assault of Dalit sarpanch in Odisha

The National Human Rights Commission has launched a probe into the alleged assault and caste-based abuse of Dalit sarpanch Chameli Ojha by police and officials in Kendrapada, Odisha.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nhrc-investigates-alleged-assault-of-dalit-sarpanch-in-odisha

### 2026-10-03: NHRC to visit Kendrapada over alleged assault of Dalit sarpanch

The National Human Rights Commission will visit Kendrapada on October 5 to investigate the alleged assault of Dalit sarpanch Chameli Ojha by officials and police following corruption allegations.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nhrc-to-visit-kendrapada-over-alleged-assault-of-dalit-sarpanch

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Cite as: NHRC investigation of Dalit sarpanch assault in Odisha. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nhrc-investigation-of-dalit-sarpanch-assault-in-odisha