In a case that has ignited statewide outrage, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Orissa High Court today seeking justice for Chameli Ojha, the Sarpanch of Tikiri Gram Panchayat under Mahakalapada block in Kendrapara district.
The petition, moved by the Bharatiya Vikas Parishad, alleges that the woman panchayat leader was falsely implicated, arrested, and brutally assaulted inside the Mahakalapada police station. It names senior officials, including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, Kendrapara SP, IIC of Mahakalapada Police Station, District Collector, and BDO, as respondents.
The PIL prays for the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a time-bound, impartial probe into the “highly sensitive and shocking” incident.
Chameli Ojha, who belongs to a tribal community, has become a symbol of courage after she dared to raise her voice against alleged irregularities. Instead of protection, she claims she faced retaliation in the form of false cases and physical assault while in custody. The incident has triggered widespread condemnation across Odisha, with many questioning the safety of elected women representatives, especially from marginalised sections.
In a powerful move, Sarpanch Chameli has written a heartfelt letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging his immediate intervention to ensure justice. She had earlier written to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Mangal also seeking his personal attention.
Adding to the drama, Chameli Ojha was granted bail by the local SDJM court just yesterday, providing her some relief after days of distress.
The High Court is expected to hear the PIL shortly. Legal experts view this case as a critical test for the protection of women in grassroots politics and the accountability of law enforcement agencies in rural Odisha.
As the story continues to unfold, citizens and women’s rights groups are watching closely, hoping the intervention of the High Court and the highest offices will deliver swift justice and restore faith in the system.
