THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, May 31: The Jharkhand BJP has demanded the immediate arrest of the alleged mastermind behind the murder of Anita Devi, a four-month pregnant woman from Bermo in Bokaro district, and sought ₹25 lakh compensation for her family.
Addressing a press conference at the party’s state headquarters in Ranchi, BJP State General Secretary Amar Kumar Bauri said the party would continue its fight until justice is delivered to the victim’s family.
The BJP also demanded strict action against police officials allegedly involved in the case and against medical personnel accused of compromising or obstructing an impartial post-mortem examination.
BJP Alleges Attempts to ‘Manage’ the Case
Bauri alleged that efforts were made to “manage” the case at the behest of the state government, the Bokaro Deputy Commissioner (DC), Superintendent of Police (SP), and the local Congress MLA.
He claimed that arrests were made only after the BJP issued an ultimatum to launch a “Chakka Jam” (road blockade) in Bokaro.
According to Bauri, six arrests made by police were insufficient, and the party would continue to press for the arrest of the alleged main conspirator.
Demand for Inquiry Into DC, SP and Local Police
The BJP has sought an inquiry into the role and conduct of the Bokaro DC, SP and local police stations in handling the case.
Bauri alleged that an organised syndicate was operating in the district under political and administrative patronage and called for a thorough investigation into the matter.
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BJP Vows Continued Support to Victim’s Family
“The BJP stands firmly with the victim’s family to ensure justice and is committed to seeing this battle through to its conclusion,” Bauri said.
He said party leaders would visit the family again on June 1, adding that State BJP President Aditya Sahu had directed the party to pursue the matter until justice is secured. He also said the Scheduled Castes Commission could be approached if required.
‘Murder of a Woman and Her Unborn Child’
Bauri described the incident as not only the murder of Anita Devi but also of her unborn child.
He alleged that the woman was beaten to death in public view and claimed that the accused later took the body for post-mortem procedures and pressured family members regarding the funeral.
The BJP leader said public outrage led to protests and a road blockade, while party leaders, including MP Dhullu Mahto, district leaders and senior BJP functionaries, intervened in the matter.
Criticism of State Government and Administration
Bauri accused the state government of failing to act promptly and criticised the local administration’s handling of the case.
“It appears as though the State’s DCs and SPs have become bonded labourers of the State Government,” he said.
He further alleged that officials were acting to please political leaders rather than upholding the law and Constitution.
BJP Questions Congress MLA’s Response
The BJP also criticised the local Congress MLA, alleging that he did not visit the site despite the seriousness of the incident.
Bauri claimed that influential individuals were attempting to shield the alleged main accused and expressed concerns about the fairness of the post-mortem process.
Among those present at the press conference were State Media Co-in-charge Yogendra Pratap Singh, State Spokesperson Rafia Naz, and SC Morcha Spokesperson Rakesh.