Balasore: Deputy Chief Minister Prabhati Parida spoke to the Anganwadi worker, who was critically injured after allegedly being assaulted by villagers for failing to serve eggs in midday meal at Mahapada Anganwadi centre in Odisha’s Balasore district on Saturday.
Parida assured the victim, Urmila Samal, of proper medical treatment and security. She also provided her phone number for direct communication if further assistance was needed. Samal is under treatment at Fakir Mohan medical college and hospital here.
According to sources, the Anganwadi worker was reportedly tied to a tree and beaten by local women for not serving eggs, which were part of the compulsory menu for the children’s lunch. Villagers released her only after child development project officer (CDPO) Parbati Murmu and other officials assured them that extra eggs would be provided to the children.
Samal was initially admitted to Basat community health centre but later shifted to Fakir Mohan medical college and hospital after her condition worsened. Her family has also lodged a complaint with Singla police.
When the Deputy Chief Minister contacted her via phone to express her concerns, she alleged that she was attacked for organising women under Subhadra Yojana.
Parida also spoke to Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) and the Superintendent of Police and directed them for appropriate action in connection with incident.