Bhadrak, Dec 25: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has called for a six-hour shutdown in the Chandbali block of Bhadrak district today, from 6 am to 12 noon, in response to the alleged rape and murder of a 10-year-old girl.

During the bandh, party workers blocked several roads by burning tyres, and businesses across the area remained closed in support of the protest.

The opposition parties have demanded justice for the victim, accusing the state government of failing to maintain law and order. The girl's body was discovered on Tuesday evening, naked and abandoned near the Baligaon panchayat office, igniting widespread outrage and protests.

The main suspect in the crime, Babul Das, was arrested in Jagatsinghpur district. However, furious locals vandalized his house in response to the incident.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh for the victim’s family and promised strict punishment for the accused. Meanwhile, the Congress party has demanded compensation of Rs 50 lakh and criticized the government's handling of women's safety, calling for stronger actions to protect citizens.