Chameli’s father speaking to the media after the bail Photograph: (OTV)
Tikhiri sarpanch Chameli Ojha from Mahakalpada block in Kendrapara district was granted conditional bail on Tuesday by the SDJM Court in connection with a case involving allegations of assault on a police officer.
The SDJM Court granted her bail on specified conditions, including the submission of a bond of Rs 30,000 and two sureties. The court’s order provides temporary relief to the elected sarpanch while legal proceedings in the case continue.
“Manas Sir (a police officer) returned the mobile phones of my son and daughter that were at the police station. The main thing is that I need justice. Those who are roaming around freely—the 20 to 25 people who attacked my daughter—I humbly request justice for her. I also humbly pray to Mohan Majhi, the Chief Minister—it is the people’s government, and he was also a sarpanch in the panchayat earlier—to provide justice to my daughter,” Chameli’s father, Niranjan Ojha, said after the bail was granted.
The case has drawn significant public and political attention in Kendrapara, with various groups expressing concern over the circumstances surrounding her arrest and subsequent detention. Meanwhile, the investigation into the allegations remains ongoing.
Chameli Ojha was arrested by police on June 13 following a complaint related to the alleged attack on a police sub-inspector. Since her arrest, she has reportedly been undergoing treatment at a medical facility after her health condition deteriorated.
Worth mentioning, in another development today, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) sought a detailed report in connection with the case involving the Tikhiri sarpanch, taking cognisance of the matter and directing local authorities to conduct a thorough inquiry.
The Commission has issued notices to the Kendrapara district administration, asking both the District Collector and Superintendent of Police to submit reports on the incident. The NHRC has emphasised the need for a fair and comprehensive investigation into the allegations and circumstances surrounding the case.