Odisha HORROR: NGO Woman Intern Stripped, Assaulted Over Child-Kidnapping Rumors While Seeking Directions on Google Maps
In a shocking case of mob violence fueled by false rumours, a 22-year-old woman NGO worker was allegedly stripped and assaulted by a crowd in Odisha's Rayagada district after being mistaken for a child kidnapper.
The disturbing incident occurred on the night of June 16 when the woman and her male colleague, both 22 years old, were travelling on a scooter through a tribal region where they had been working on community welfare projects since September last year as part of a prestigious fellowship programme.
The disturbing incident occurred on the night of June 16 when the woman and her male colleague, both 22 years old, were travelling on a scooter through a tribal region where they had been working on community welfare projects since September last year as part of a prestigious fellowship programme.
Mob Attacks Pair After Suspecting Them of Child Kidnapping
According to reports, the two social workers lost their way while travelling and stopped to check directions using Google Maps. However, widespread rumours of child kidnappers operating in the area led some local residents to become suspicious.
According to reports, the two social workers lost their way while travelling and stopped to check directions using Google Maps. However, widespread rumours of child kidnappers operating in the area led some local residents to become suspicious.
The woman later told authorities that a local resident stopped them and demanded identification documents. Although they produced their ID cards, the man reportedly remained unconvinced. Fearing for their safety, the pair attempted to leave the area, but a group of villagers allegedly began chasing them on motorcycles.
Their scooter reportedly skidded near a field, after which the crowd caught up with them. The woman was allegedly subjected to severe harassment, including having her clothes torn off, while her male colleague was brutally beaten.
Driver's Quick Action Helps Rescue Victims
Driver's Quick Action Helps Rescue Victims
Police personnel and local driver Balram Bagh rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident. However, the crowd had become so aggressive that it reportedly followed the police vehicle to a Community Health Centre and even attempted to create a disturbance at the hospital premises.
Amid the chaos, Balram Bagh displayed remarkable courage by giving his own T-shirt to the victim to help preserve her dignity. With assistance from police officers, both victims were safely evacuated from the area.
Police Arrest 20 People
Police Arrest 20 People
Rayagada Superintendent of Police Raj Prasad said authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the incident.
Police have registered three separate cases in connection with the attack and have so far arrested at least 20 people, including several juveniles who were allegedly part of the mob.
Victims Suffer Severe Trauma
Officials from the NGO Gram Vikas, with which the two fellows were associated, said both victims remain deeply traumatized by the ordeal and are currently not in a condition to speak publicly about the incident.
Officials from the NGO Gram Vikas, with which the two fellows were associated, said both victims remain deeply traumatized by the ordeal and are currently not in a condition to speak publicly about the incident.
After receiving medical attention and completing legal formalities, the two social workers were handed over to their families.
