Anandpur/Keonjhar: Days after the alleged rape and pregnancy of a minor girl with disability sparked widespread communal tension in Odisha's Keonjhar district, police have arrested a 28-year-old man in this connection. The absconding accused, identified as Balaram Ho (alias Kabu), was apprehended from a neighboring state following a long pursuit.

The harrowing incident, which took place in Murgagotha village under the jurisdiction of Anandapur police, had grabbed headlies a few days back after revelation of the matter had led to a localized riot-like situation, with angry villagers targeting a religious site and resorting to arson after getting to know that the accused boy was from a minority community.

The incident

Approximately four months ago, the victim, a minor with a physical disability, was allegedly assaulted by the accused while she had gone to a nearby stream to bathe. Terrified by the ordeal, the girl remained silent until her health began to deteriorate recently. Upon being taken to a medical facility by her family, it was discovered that she was four months pregnant.

Police Action and Arrest

Following the revelation, a formal complaint was lodged, prompting immediate action from law enforcement. On the orders of the SP, a special team was formed under the leadership of Anandapur SDPO Kamal Kumar Panda. Probe revealed that the accused had fled to Tamil Nadu shortly after the incident to evade capture. Tracking his movements, the police team conducted raids in several locations outside the state, eventually arresting Balaram Ho on Thursday.

Community Tensions and Peace Efforts

The news of the assault had sparked intense outrage within the local community with the law ad order situation turing volatile. Senior officials, including the SP and SDPO, had to intervene with a significant police force to bring the situation under control.

"We have successfully apprehended the accused from outside the state. Our current focus is on maintaining harmony in the village. A peace committee has been formed to restore normalcy and prevent any further communal tension," SDPO Kamal Kumar Panda told mediapersons.

The accused is currently in police custody and is expected to be produced in court following further interrogation, he added.

Also read: Odisha: Keonjhar tense as communal tension erupts after minor girl with disabilities allegedly raped