BJD Calls Six-Hour Strike in Puri on August 7 Over Minor Girl’s Death

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has announced a six-hour strike in Odisha’s Puri district on August 7, demanding justice in the case of the alleged sexual assault and mysterious death of a minor girl from Balanga.

The strike will be observed from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the party announced during a press conference on Sunday. The BJD has accused the authorities of serious lapses in the ongoing investigation and alleged attempts to shield the real culprit behind the incident.

The minor girl, who was previously admitted to AIIMS, Delhi, succumbed to her injuries under unclear circumstances. BJD leaders have raised concerns over the inconsistencies in official reports, and questioned the sudden shift in the victim’s father’s statement, suggesting it may have been made under pressure.

Addressing the media, Puri district BJD president Umakanta Samantray expressed grave concern over the handling of the case.

“There is a clear lack of transparency in the investigation. Law enforcement agencies have failed to act decisively. If the government does not respond, we will be forced to intensify our agitation,” Samantray stated.

Calling the incident a matter of public conscience, the BJD has demanded a free, fair, and impartial investigation, and urged the state government to reveal the truth and ensure justice for the victim.

The party has also called on citizens of Puri district to support the strike peacefully, as a means of pressuring authorities to take concrete action in the case.