The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Thursday called for a six-hour hartal across Odisha’s Puri district, demanding justice for the student who died under mysterious circumstances in Balanga. The protest, which began at 6 am and will continue till 12 noon, saw widespread participation from the party workers and supporters.

Protesters staged demonstrations and burned tyres on key roads, especially near Pipili, leading to traffic disruptions in several areas. The agitators alleged police inaction and demanded immediate and strict action against those involved in the alleged murder.

Shops and business establishments remained shut in many parts of the district during the protest. Emergency services, however, were not affected by the bandh.

The BJD has intensified its agitation, holding the state administration accountable and calling for swift justice for the victim’s family. Police have been deployed in sensitive areas to maintain law and order.

Balanga Girl Death Case

The minor girl was reportedly attacked on July 19 near Bayabar village in Balanga when unidentified assailants poured a flammable substance on her and set her on fire in broad daylight. She was initially admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar before being airlifted to AIIMS Delhi on July 20 for advanced treatment.

Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and receiving intensive critical care, her condition remained precarious and she succumbed to her injuries on August 2.

However, in a shocking twist in the case, soon after the minor’s death while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Delhi, Odisha Police claimed that there was no evidence indicating the involvement of any other individual in the incident.