By JB Dash, Baripada: Allegations of police excesses against tribal women in Mayurbhanj’s Bamanghaty subdivision have sparked widespread outrage and protests. The unrest began after a March 12 incident involving the alleged misconduct of a minor tribal girl in Bhinjua village under Tiring police limits. When locals, including a large number of women, protested demanding action, police allegedly resorted to force.

Tribal leaders claimed that women protesters were chased, manhandled, and detained during the crackdown. The alleged targeting of women intensified anger across villages, leading to a massive agitation and a subdivision-wide bandh on March 20. Protesters accused the administration of shielding the accused while acting harshly against those seeking justice.

Amid mounting pressure, police detained 34 tribals, including 27 women. Their arrest further fueled protests, with tribal organizations calling it unjust and oppressive. In a significant relief, the Rairangpur court ordered their release on Saturday.

The released women were welcomed back with strong community support, marking a symbolic victory for the movement. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has taken cognizance of the incident, raising hopes for a fair probe. However, demands for accountability and justice continue to grow.