A minor girl working as a domestic helper in Bhubaneswar died by suicide on November 17, but the case has now taken a disturbing turn.
Her mother filed a police complaint accusing the employer of sexual exploitation, forced abortion, and torture.
The mother alleged that the house owner, identified as Anup, impregnated her daughter and later forced her to undergo an abortion with the help of his wife, Bijayalaxmi. She claimed that the couple subjected the girl to relentless harassment, which ultimately drove her to take her own life.
Reports revealed that the mother and daughter had been working for the couple in Sijiput under the Tamando police limits for the past two and a half years. On the day of the incident, the girl hanged herself from a railing inside the house. Initially, police registered a suicide case, but the mother’s complaint introduced allegations of exploitation and coercion.
She further stated that after the girl’s death, the accused couple held her hostage and threatened to kill her if she disclosed the matter. Police detained Bijayalaxmi for interrogation, while Anup remains absconding. Authorities confirmed that efforts are underway to apprehend him.
Investigators emphasised that the case involves serious charges, including sexual exploitation and abetment to suicide. A probe continues to establish the sequence of events and gather evidence. Police assured that strict action will follow once the investigation identifies the culprits.
The incident has sparked outrage in Bhubaneswar, with residents demanding justice for the victim and accountability for those responsible.
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