Social activist Mamata Behera who had allegedly forced Padma Shri Kamala Pujari to dance in the ICU of SCB Medical College and Hospital failed to appear before Jeypore sub-collector.
Acting on the notice served by the Koraput district administration, Kamala’s attendant Rajib Hial appeared before the sub-collector, but Mamata cited threat to life and did not show up.
She claimed threat to her life and submitted a written memorandum to the district administration. In the letter, she has asked for more time and promised to appear in person.
Speaking to OTV, she said, “We were only trying to encourage her to be mentally strong. There was no ill intention of any kind. Apart from proper treatment, she got well soon due to the encouragement. Many people who even visited her in the hospital also wished her good health. There was no other intention.”
“This video was made viral. Some people started taking it positively while others took it negatively. So, I have requested for a new date to appear in person. Now, the media has created such a situation that there is threat to my life. But, I will appear in person and put my stand,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Paraja and Bhoomia Samaj members have threatened to launch a massive protest if no action is taken against Mamata.
They condemned the incident and requested the state government to take legal action against the accused for damaging the image of Pujari who is the pride of Adivasi people.
On the other hand, Kamala’s attendant Rajib said, “I was completely ignorant about the video. I was not present during the video shoot. I also gave it in writing. As the social worker has dragged me into the controversy unnecessarily, I am hurt and has urged the sub-collector to take action against the real accused.”