Laxmi Majhi death: Central forensic team conducts scientific tests in Odisha’s Rayagada

Rayagada: A two-member Central forensic team reached Rayagada town in this district and conducted scientific tests today to find out the cause of crime in connection with Laxmi Majhi death.

‘Maa Gruha’ warden Laxmi was previously found dead in Chandrapur locality. The forensic team visited Maa Gruha and went to the spot where her body was spotted on December 21. The team verified the spot and quizzed a security guard of the community health centre (CHC) in Chandrapur.

The Central team also discussed with several other staff of the CHC, a private source said.

Worth mentioning, Zilla Adivasi Mahasangh, a local tribal outfit, observed Rayagada Bandh on January 5, 2024, seeking justice against torture, burning, and murder of tribal people in the district.

Odisha Crime Branch earlier commenced its inquiry at the Maa Gruha, where Laxmi Majhi served as a warden. The team, led by DSP Narendra Behera, conducted an extensive probe, questioning four colleagues and the organisation’s director Nrusinghanath Mohapatra. Sources revealed that Majhi’s neighbours were also questioned in connection with the alleged murder case.

Reports suggest that the initial findings of the Crime Branch leaned towards suspicion that Majhi might have been murdered elsewhere before her body was set on fire near Maa Gruha, potentially to destroy crucial evidence. The tribal girl was allegedly killed on December 21, 2023.