7-yr-old orphan girl branded with hot iron rods by grandfather in Bhubaneswar, rescued

In a deeply harrowing incident, a 7-year-old orphan girl was allegedly branded with hot iron rods by her own grandfather in the Odisha capital. The matter came to the fore after the minor was rescued from Shahid Nagar.

Since the death of her parents, the seven-year-old girl had been suffering abuse at the hands of her grandfather and a female accomplice. The rescue operation was conducted by local volunteers from the Ruchika Social Service Organisation.

The incident has sent ripples of concern across Bhubaneswar. 

Allegations of Abuse:

Sources said, the child has lost both her parents. Reports suggest that after the untimely demise of her parents, the girl was left in the care of her grandfather. It is alleged that he, later joined by another woman in the household, subjected the girl to continuous physical abuse.

They branded her with hot iron rods in the most inhumane manner. The child exhibited marks consistent with beatings and burns. Unable to withstand further mistreatment, the little girl had managed to flee her home, and was seeking shelter near the temple from where she was rescued. 

Discovery and Rescue:

The child was found distressed and crying close to an old Shiva temple. A concerned citizen, Kumar Swain, noticed her plight and ensured her immediate safety by taking her to the Shahid Nagar police station. Here, she was handed over to representatives from the Ruchika Social Service Organisation, who are now involved in her care.

The Shahid Nagar police station is currently providing care for the girl and has launched an official investigation into the matter.