Bhubaneswar: Tikhiri Gram Panchayat Sarpanch Chameli Ojha was admitted to Capital Hospital Monday after her health deteriorated during an indefinite hunger strike at Lower PMG, where she was demanding action against Mahakalapada Block Development Officer (BDO) Rabinarayan Acharya and Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) Manas Mallik.
Ojha alleged that she was subjected to harassment, physical assault and wrongful arrest following an incident at the Mahakalapada BDO office June 11. Doctors said her condition is being closely monitored and treatment is underway.
Also read: Sarpanch Chameli Ojha begins indefinite hunger strike; seeks action against BDO, IIC
The controversy began after an altercation at the BDO office, where Ojha claimed she had gone to discuss development works in her panchayat. She alleged that she was mistreated, assaulted and later arrested, while also accusing the police and administrative officials of misusing their authority.
She has demanded the suspension of both the BDO and the IIC, along with an impartial inquiry into the incident, stating that she will continue her protest until justice is delivered. On Monday afternoon, Ojha’s condition worsened due to prolonged fasting, following which she was shifted to Capital Hospital.
A medical team is examining her and providing the required treatment. An official health bulletin is awaited.
The Chameli Ojha case has emerged as a major political and administrative issue in Odisha, triggering protests by Sarpanch associations and reigniting the debate over the relationship between elected Panchayati Raj representatives and government officials.
With Ojha now hospitalised, the focus has once again shifted to the state government’s response to her allegations and demands.