Dalit Men Brutally Assaulted, Tonsured in Odisha Over Cattle Transport Allegation

In a shocking incident that has sparked outrage across Odisha, two Dalit men were allegedly assaulted, tonsured, and humiliated in Ganjam district on suspicion of being involved in cattle smuggling. The incident took place on Sunday at Jahada in Kharigumma village under the jurisdiction of Dharakote police station.

According to police sources, the two men were forced to crawl on their knees and consume grass and drain water by a group of villagers who accused them of transporting cattle illegally. The gruesome act came to light after purported videos of the assault began circulating on social media, drawing condemnation from civil society and political leaders alike.

While the authenticity of the videos could not be independently verified by PTI, their circulation has led to swift police action. Nine people have reportedly been detained in connection with the incident.

The brutality of the act and its caste-based undertones have triggered protests and calls for justice. Dalit rights activists and political parties, including the Congress, have strongly condemned the incident, calling it a violation of human dignity and an attack on marginalized communities.

Police officials have launched an investigation and assured strict action against those involved. “This is a serious matter, and we are taking all necessary steps to ensure justice for the victims,” said a senior officer from Dharakote police station.

Meanwhile, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee has formed a fact-finding team to visit the village and assess the situation. The panel, headed by Congress Legislature Party leader Rama Chandra Kadam, will submit a report to party leadership and demand accountability from the state administration.

The incident has reignited debates on caste-based violence and the need for stronger protections for vulnerable communities in rural Odisha.