Balangir: Tension gripped Ghushuramunda village under Gudighat panchayat in Balangir district following protests over the appointment of a cook at an Anganwadi centre.

All activities at the Ward No. 6 Anganwadi centre came to a halt after villagers reportedly locked the facility, opposing the appointment of a newly selected Dalit cook.

The post had fallen vacant after the death of the previous cook, prompting six women to apply for the position. Following the selection process, Punya Harpal, who secured the highest marks, was appointed.

However, villagers raised objections, alleging Harpal applied for the post without resigning from her position as a committee member. Some residents also cited local traditions, expressing reluctance to allow children to consume food prepared by a Dalit cook.

Meanwhile, another group in the village demanded that a different eligible candidate be appointed instead.

On receiving information about the protest, the Muribahal IIC, along with the local Tehsildar and CDPO, reached the spot and held discussions with the villagers in an attempt to resolve the issue. Despite their efforts, the villagers remained firm on their demands.

As of the latest reports, administrative officials are continuing discussions to defuse the situation and restore normal functioning at the Anganwadi centre.