A 55-year-old ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) worker was allegedly assaulted and abused by three inebriated youths while she was on duty in Nayagarh district on Friday night.
The health worker had been distributing oral rehydration solution (ORS) and zinc supplements to families in Parbatipur village affected by diarrhoea when the shocking episode unfolded around 8:30 p.m. According to reports, the woman was accosted by the drunk trio who hurled abuses and physically assaulted her despite her pleas to let her continue her work.
The situation escalated when a local youth, identified as Mayadhar Pradhan, stepped in to help the woman and was brutally attacked with a sword by the miscreants. He suffered a serious head injury and was rushed to Bhapur Community Health Centre.
Local residents revealed that the accused are known for bullying and have created a climate of fear in the area. Although several witnesses saw the attack unfold, few dared to intervene.
The survivor has filed a complaint with Fatehgarh police, prompting an immediate investigation. Authorities have confirmed that Pradhan is in stable condition, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the attackers.
The incident highlights growing concerns about the safety of frontline health workers and law and order in rural Odisha.
