Assault at Samartha rehabilitation centre: Sambalpur admin relocates inmates including 15 women

Days after a purported video of the assault on mentally challenged individuals at 'Samartha' rehabilitation centre in Sambalpur surfaced, the district administration on Friday relocated the 42 inmates of the centre.

According to sources, 15 women and 27 male inmates of the rehabilitation centre were relocated to the government-run Integrated Infrastructure Complex in the Baijamunda area.

Two NGOs named ‘Parichaya’ and ‘Sambala’ will take care of these inmates, sources informed, adding that few of them have expressed their interest to go back to their homes.

“We were subjected to inhuman torture. I am fine and want to go to my home,” said Amit Bhoi, an inmate.

Bipin Panda, a member of ‘Sambala’, said, “Most of the inmates are in a stable condition. The way they were subjected to torture is not right.”

Also Read: ‘Samartha’ rehabilitation centre in Sambalpur to be blacklisted after abuse allegations surface

“15 women and 27 male inmates have been shifted to the Integrated Infrastructure Complex at Baijamunda. While most of them are in good health, a few have some problems,” said Bhagyashree Bhoi, an official of the district administration. Later in the day, Samartha rehabilitation centre was sealed in the presence of the Executive Magistrate and Police.

What Are The Allegations Against The Organisation?

The allegations stem from reports that inmates at the 'Samartha' centre were subjected to physical abuse, including beatings while being served food. The disturbing incident came to light after a video of the abuse went viral, prompting the police to raid the facility for further investigation.