In a significant development that has sparked fresh debate in local political circles, Tikhiri Sarpanch Chameli Ojha was granted bail by the SDJM Court on Tuesday in connection with the high-profile case of assaulting police personnel inside the Mahakalapada block office in Kendrapara.
The court allowed Ojha to walk free on a personal bond of Rs 30,000 with two sureties, bringing an end—at least temporarily—to her time in judicial custody. The sarpanch had been at the centre of a storm after she was accused of abusing the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Mahakalapada and physically assaulting two police personnel during an alleged confrontation at the block office.
Following her arrest, Ojha was admitted to the Kendrapara District Headquarters Hospital for treatment. She was later discharged and sent to judicial custody, only for jail authorities to readmit her to the hospital amid heavy security, raising eyebrows among locals.
The incident has drawn widespread attention in Odisha, with many questioning the conduct of both the sarpanch and the authorities involved. Supporters of Ojha claim she was acting in the interest of villagers, while critics have condemned the alleged attack on law enforcement personnel.
With her release on bail, all eyes are now on the next steps in the legal proceedings and how this episode will impact local politics in the Mahakalapada region.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
