Gopalpur, Sep 2: In a disturbing incident, a minor girl was hospitalized in critical condition after allegedly consuming phenyl mixed with medication near the Gopalpur police station in Odisha.

The Gopalpur police have arrested her male companion, identified as Kedar Das from Jagiapalli village, following a complaint filed by the girl’s mother.

According to police sources, the minor and Kedar had visited a local lodge in Gopalpur the previous day, where they reportedly got into a heated argument. The lodge owner later asked them to leave the premises. Upset over being evicted despite paying, Kedar approached the Gopalpur police station to file a complaint.

Soon after, the minor girl’s family arrived at the station, and the girl allegedly consumed phenyl in front of them. She was immediately rushed to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, where she received emergency treatment. Fortunately, her condition has now stabilized.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the phenyl may have been mixed with other substances. The police have sent samples for forensic analysis. Meanwhile, the minor has been shifted to a juvenile rehabilitation home, where further inquiry will be conducted.

Berhampur SP Dr. Sravana Vivek M confirmed the arrest and stated that the case is being handled with sensitivity due to the involvement of a minor. The police are probing the circumstances that led to the incident, including the nature of the relationship between the two individuals and the events at the lodge.