Baripada: Two mentally-challenged siblings, including a minor, were assaulted by locals who accused them of stealing children at Laxmiposhi Battalion Chhak here in Mayurbhanj district Friday.
While trying to save the victims, their father also had to face the wrath of the mob. The siblings were reportedly tied on a pole and beaten up by the locals. According to sources, the siblings and another boy of their village had gone to visit their neighbouring village.
They lost their way and reached Laxmiposhi Chhak. Locals suspected them to be child thieves and detained them. Being mentally-challenged, the brothers failed to give a satisfactory reply to the mob that queried them on their intention.
The siblings then were subjected to brutal torture by the mob. Hearing the news, the siblings’ father rushed to the spot and tried to intervene. But, he too was beaten up by the locals. On being informed, police reached the spot and pacified the mob. The situation was brought under control and police rescued the two brothers and admitted them to a local hospital.
After preliminary treatment, they were shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital for further treatment. Police registered a case over a complaint by the victim’s father and launched a probe, police IIC Tilotama Rout said. PNN
