Puri, July 28: In the wake of the shocking case involving the burning of a minor girl from the NuaGopalpur slum under Balanga Police Station limits, security has been tightened at the victim’s residence. Police have deployed round-the-clock protection, with personnel working in two shifts, from 6 AM to 10 PM and 10 PM to 6 AM, to ensure the safety of the girl and her family.
Ten days into the investigation, the police are yet to crack the mystery surrounding the incident. Sources indicate that inconsistencies between the statements of the victim and her family have complicated the probe. As a result, the Crime Branch and local police have conducted multiple rounds of interrogation.
Adding to the complexity, investigators have discovered significant discrepancies between the girl’s initial statement to police at AIIMS Bhubaneswar and a subsequent account given at Delhi AIIMS, where she was shifted for advanced medical treatment. This has prompted authorities to plan a fresh recording of her statement.
A team comprising Balanga Station Officer Dibyaranjan Panda, investigating officers and Puri Headquarters DSP Kalpana Kahari has traveled to New Delhi to carry out the process. The re-recording of the victim’s statement is expected to take place today at Delhi AIIMS.
Speaking on the matter during his visit to Balanga Police Station on Sunday, SP Pinak Mishra said, “The girl’s full recovery is crucial. We believe her fresh testimony will be key to unlocking the truth behind this case.”
