Bhubaneswar, June 19: Police have arrested 16 persons in connection with the brutal assault on two development workers who were allegedly mistaken for child-lifters in Odisha's Rayagada district. Officials said further arrests are likely as investigations continue into the shocking incident that occurred in the Kalyansingpur area.

The accused were produced before a local court on Thursday. Police have registered four separate cases in connection with the incident and identified nearly 40 to 50 individuals who were allegedly involved in the mob violence.

Rayagada SDPO Gaurahari Sahu said strict action would be taken against all those responsible. However, he refrained from sharing additional details, citing the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings.

According to police, the victims, Suman Jha from Delhi and Arpit Sutariya from Gujarat, were associated with a rural development organisation. They were travelling from Kandhamal district to Kalahandi district and had stopped at Kandul Guda village under Dhamunipanga Panchayat to seek directions.

During Raja festivities, the duo reportedly interacted with local children and distributed biscuits. Their actions allegedly triggered suspicion among some villagers, who spread rumours that they were child-lifters. A large crowd soon gathered and allegedly attacked them. The incident has sparked widespread concern, particularly following reports that a young woman was subjected to public humiliation during the violence.

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