Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Bhawanipatna, May 30:

Irate villagers today set houses and vehicles on fire in protest against a man’s sexcapade with a tribal girl from a village in Odisha’s Kalahandi district.

vehicle burnt

According to reports, the husband of the sarpanch of Thuapadar panchayat had allegedly abducted a tribal girl of the village few days ago.

Tension ran high after the accused along with the girl returned to Dunguripadar village under Kalahandi Sadar police limits yesterday.

Though a complaint was lodged with the Sadar police, the villagers alleged that no action was taken. Alleging police inaction, two groups clashed in the village and set the house of the sarpanch, a tractor, an SUV and two bikes afire today.

Besides, the mob also allegedly set some other houses ablaze.

Getting information from the locals, the police reached the spot and persuaded people to refrain from violence. The cops too were at the receiving end as they were attacked by the villagers armed with traditional weapons.

Three police personnel were injured in the incident following which two platoons of police force were deployed in the village to maintain law and order.

Meanwhile, Sub Collector, Additional SP and other officials are camping in the village to monitor the situation.

On the other hand, husband of sarpanch Bandana Harpal has approached the local police seeking protection.