Politics over the gangrape and murder of a 45-year old woman in Balikuma village under the Kankadahada police station in Dhenkanal district intensified on Friday.
The BJP alleged that the police are trying to save the skin of the people involved in the gruesome crime.
Addressing a press conference here, BJP Mahila Morcha president Prabhati Parida said the district police have failed to take action against the main culprits and are trying to shield the accused.
“Apart from the arrested four accused, more people were involved in the crime. As the victim, Jayamani, was the prime witness in the rape case of her niece, a conspiracy was hatched to eliminate her,” alleged Parida.
Police have made the arrests under pressure and are now vehemently trying to save others involved in the incident, she added.
Meanwhile, Pradesh Congress Committee president Prasad Harichandan called for a State-wide stir by the party on June 19 over the gangrape case. Besides, he demanded trial of the case in a fast track court and security and a compensation of Rs 20 lakh to the victim’s family.
Earlier on Thursday, police had arrested four persons in connection with the incident including the main accused Hari Patra, who is the son-in-law of the deceased.