BJP observes 12-Hour Hartal across Odisha

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for 12-hour state-wide hartal in protest against the death of Mahakalapada victim, who was raped by two youth and then set ablaze in Kharinasi village on July 28. The 14-year-old Sujata Bairagi died on August 8 after battling for life for 12 days.

The BJP has alleged that the victim died because of medical negligence. BJP’s State Unit President KV Singhdeo has claimed that there was a delay in shifting the victim to New Delhi, which resulted in her death.

The BJP also took strong exception to the statement of Health Minister Dr. Damodar Rout that she could have died because of noise pollution, as the protesters created ruckus outside the Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar.

Buses, trucks and auto-rickshaws have stayed off the door in many parts of the state, including capital Bhubaneswar. Many shops, petrol pumps and business establishments remained closed, fearing backlash from the BJP cadres. The hartal has been peaceful so far. Over 20 platoons of police have been deployed across the city.