Child Welfare / Balasore MP's Intervention Reunites Father With Minor Daughter After 12 Days

Balasore, Aug 2: A father was reunited with his minor daughter after 12 days following the intervention of Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi, who has alleged procedural lapses in the handling of the child by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and said he would seek action against the officials concerned.

The case pertains to a family dispute in Sorisapal village under Oupada block and is expected to be reviewed by the district administration.

Marital Dispute Led To Child Custody Issue
According to the father's account, Satyaban Nayak from Sorisapal village had married Karisma Biswal. While Satyaban was working outside the state, Karisma allegedly developed a relationship with another man, identified as Lambodhar Rout from the same village.

Satyaban alleged that he found the two together in a room and subsequently lodged a complaint with Oupada police.

As per Satyaban, Karisma informed the police on November 23, 2024, that she wished to live with Lambodhar Rout. While she reportedly took her belongings and jewellery, she did not take the couple's daughter, who remained in Satyaban's care.

Father Alleges Child Was Taken By CWC Officials
Satyaban alleged that on July 21, 2026, officials of the Child Welfare Committee took his daughter while she was playing at a neighbour's house.

He claimed that when he visited the CWC office the following day, he was not allowed to meet his daughter despite repeated requests. According to him, he remained unable to see the child for 12 days.

Also Read: Odisha Police Rescue 17,590 Missing Women and Children in First Half of 2026

MP's Intervention Facilitates Reunion
After approaching Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi, the matter was reportedly taken up with CWC officials.

According to the MP's office, officials informed him that the child had been kept at Krushnasukuri Ashram in Dhobashila village in Nilgiri. Satyaban was then called to the institution on August 1, where he was reunited with his daughter after nearly two weeks.

According to those present, the emotional reunion saw both father and daughter break down in tears.

MP Seeks Action, District-Level Review Planned
Sarangi criticised the handling of the case and said he would write to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi seeking action against officials if procedural irregularities are established.

He also said the matter would be taken up at the Balasore Collector's office on Monday, where it would be reviewed with the aim of reaching an early resolution.