THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Berhampur, May 16: In the Ganjam district of Odisha, supporters of the ruling BJD and the BJP clashed, resulting in the death of a BJP worker and the injuries of seven others, police stated on Thursday.
The confrontation occurred on Wednesday night over the hanging of posters for election campaigning in Sri Krushna Saranapur village in the Khallikote police station area.
A police officer stated that the person who passed away has been recognized as Dilip Kumar Pahana (28), a local resident of the village. He died while undergoing treatment at MKCG Medical College and Hospital.Top of Form
Sharp weapons used
The initial probe suggests that the confrontation arose due to the placement of campaign posters for a candidate, and both groups engaged in the altercation using sharp weapons.
The police officer further mentioned that the individuals injured in the incident are currently receiving treatment at the government hospital, and their condition is reported to be stable.
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Furious BJP workers demand MLAs arrest
Angry BJP supporters reportedly damaged numerous vehicles parked near the residence of Suryamani Baidya, the BJD candidate and incumbent MLA for the Khallikote assembly constituency. They also obstructed the road near the police station.
Additionally. they demanded that the MLA and her husband, Daitary Behera, be arrested.
Odisha CM denounces the incident
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik denounced the incident and offered condolences to the family of the deceased.
“Deeply disturbed and saddened at the very unfortunate and tragic incident of violence in Khallikote area. Such incidents of violence have no place in our democracy and civil society. I strongly condemn this incident”, CM Patnaik posted on X.
“My deepest condolence to the family members who have lost their loved one and I pray for early recovery of those who sustained injuries. I am sure police will take strong and exemplary action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” he added in his post.
Deeply disturbed and saddened at the very unfortunate and tragic incident of violence in Khallikote area. Such incidents of violence have no place in our democracy and civil society.
I strongly condemn this incident. My deepest condolence to the family who has lost their loved…
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) May 16, 2024
BJP president J P Nadda also voiced his concerns about the clash, stating that such incidents must not occur.
