The alleged rape and murder of a minor girl in Chandbali ofBhadrakdistrict has been included under the 'Red Flag' category, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania informed on Thursday.

The DGP said the accused has been arrested in Jagatsinghpur district. He added that the police are aiming to complete the investigation at the earliest.

Expressing confidence in the probe, Khurania said the district police would conduct a thorough investigation and hoped that it would lead to a positive outcome.

Notably, the incident has triggered sharp political reactions, with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Congress jointly calling for a Chandbali bandh today.

Chief Minister Mohan Majhi announced a financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh for the victim’s family.Amid public outrage following the incident, angry locals reportedly vandalised the house of the prime accused. The accused was later arrested from Jagatsinghpur district.

Police officials have stated that all aspects of the crime are being examined and further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

Meanwhile, members of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights visited Chandbali and met the victim’s family. Commission member Manasmita Khuntia, along with the District Child Protection Officer, interacted with the family members and assured them of necessary support within the framework of the law.