Odishatv Bureau

Bhubaneswar: On Thursday, probably for the first time, CM Naveen patnaik clicked a selfie with seven year old Pinki Dalei of Kendrapara, who fought a crocodile to save her sister Basanti few days ago.

The CM lauded efforts of Pinki who saved her sister, the victim of attack, of Bankula village of the district and as a token of appreciation, gifted the sisters two cycles.

Patnaik's gesture caught the attention of many as he used his phone and showed keenness to freeze the moment and adjusted the camera to fit in both girls on either sides.

After enquiring about financial condition of the girls, he directed the District collector to facilitate them with all possible support.

On April 6, Pinki and Basanti were washing utensils in the village pond when a crocodile appeared from the waters and caught hold of Basanti’s leg. Pinki displayed courage to play as a saviour for her sister. She hit the crocodile with a bamboo stick, and drove the reptile away. The reptile attack had left Basanti with injuries on her legs and hands but she too faced it all with courage.

Appreciating the act, Collector Muralidhar Mallick has recommended Pinki’s name to State Government for National and State Bravery Awards.

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