The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today staged a six-hour hartal across Puri district demanding justice for a minor girl who died under mysterious circumstances in Balanga.
The party alleged gross negligence and inaction by local police in investigating the case.
The protest, which began at 6 AM and continued till noon, saw widespread participation from BJD workers and local residents. Shops remained shut, vehicular movement was disrupted, and tyres were burnt at key junctions as part of the agitation. Protesters raised slogans demanding swift action and a transparent probe into the incident.
According to reports, the girl was found dead under suspicious circumstances last week. Her body was later sent to AIIMS Delhi for a post-mortem, but the delay in the investigation and lack of clarity around the cause of death have sparked public outrage.
Senior BJD leaders accused the police of attempting to suppress the case and demanded accountability. “This is not just a political issue—it’s about justice for a daughter of Odisha,” said a party spokesperson.
The protest concluded peacefully, but BJD leaders warned of intensified agitation if their demands are not met.
