An angry mob thrashed a woman after tying her to an electric pole in Odisha’s Balasore district, ANI reported on Thursday. The woman is a member of a self-help group in Manitri Chandanpur village.
The incident took place on April 14, and came to light only after a video of it was shared widely on social media, according to OdishaTV.
The video shows the residents forcibly tying the woman to an electric pole. They accuse her of interfering in their personal matters and disturbing local social practices. The woman used to help resolve the problems of distressed women in the village.
Police officer Sanjay Kumar Parida said two different complaints have been registered at the Simulia police station. “Investigation is on what led to the conflict,” he said, according to the Deccan Chronicle. “People taking into their hands will be dealt in accordance with the law.”
The incident coincides with widespread protests against rising crimes against women. Protest marches have been held in the last few days against rapes in Kathua and Unnao. In the Unnao case, a BJP MLA from Uttar Pradesh, Kuldeep Singh Sengar, is accused of raping a teenager in June 2017. In Kathua, eight people are accused of abducting, sedating, repeatedly raping and murdering an eight-year-old in January.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!