Bhadrak, Dec 14: The family of a kidnapped minor girl staged a sit-in protest outside the office of the superintendent of police in Bhadrak district, demanding her immediate rescue.

According to the complaint, the incident took place on October 10 at around 5.30 pm under Chandbali police station limits. The minor, identified as Arpita Mahalik, daughter of Amulya Mahalik and Anita Mahalik of Ghikoili–Kandha village, was allegedly abducted while she was outside her house to collect a parcel.

Speaking to reporters, Arpita’s father said four youths forcibly took his daughter away in a vehicle. “Villagers told us that the men kidnapped my daughter. We tried to chase the vehicle, but they managed to flee,” he said.

Arpita is a first-year Plus Two commerce student of BJB College, Bhubaneswar, and had returned home for the Dussehra holidays. Following the incident, the family lodged a complaint at Chandbali police station. Despite searches, the girl is yet to be traced.

The family has alleged that a youth identified as Raja Mahalik under Bansada police station, along with his associates, was involved in the abduction. Expressing concern over the girl’s safety, the family urged police to act swiftly.

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Police officials assured the family that efforts are underway to trace and rescue the minor. After receiving assurances from district police authorities, the family withdrew their protest.