Local residents of Bedivan Madhuvan village in Bihar blocked National Highway 28 on Thursday to protest against the gangrape of a 12-year-old girl last week, reported PTI. The mob burnt tyres and staged a protest on Motihari-Muzaffarpur highway near Pipra in East Champaran district, demanding a speedy trial and “exemplary punishment” for the accused assaulters.

The rape reportedly took place on June 15 when the minor had gone to an orchard near her home to collect mangoes. She was allegedly gangraped by two men. Police arrested Pramod Sahni and Kamlesh Sahni the same day and the duo were sent to jail after the victim’s father lodged an FIR.

The minor underwent a surgery at Patna Medical College and Hospital on Wednesday evening, but has not regained consciousness and is said to be in critical condition. Chakia Sub-Divisional Officer Chitragupta said district administration will provide financial assistance for the girl's treatment.

However, the victim’s father also complained that his family was being forced to withdraw the FIR and threatened with dire consequences. Chakia Deputy Superintendent of Police Mundrika Prasad said speedy trial will be conducted in the case.

In another incident, a 17-year-old girl was allegedly assaulted at gunpoint in Motihari on Thursday, NDTV reported. The family has alleged that the victim was brutalised with a wooden stick, but police said she was not raped. Police have not made any arrests in connection with her assault yet.