In Ganjam district of Odisha, a clash between supporters of the ruling BJD and the saffron party claimed the life of a BJP worker, while seven others were injured. The dispute was related to the hanging of campaign posters. The aftermath saw rampant vandalism targeting vehicles near a BJD legislator's residence.
The deadly skirmish took place in Khalikote area's Shree Krishna Sarnapur village on Wednesday night. The deceased BJP worker has been identified as 28-year-old Dilip Kumar Pahana, a resident of the same village.
A local police officer, while informing PTI, disclosed that the injured Dilip Kumar Pahana succumbed during treatment at MKCG Medical College and Hospital.
According to initial police investigations, the confrontation was sparked by the posting of a candidate's poster and both sides used sharp weapons in the ensuing fight. The officer stated that the injured are receiving treatment in a government hospital and their condition is stable.
Enraged BJP workers went on a rampage, damaging multiple vehicles parked near the residence of Khallikote assembly's BJD candidate and incumbent MLA Suryamani Baidya, and also blocked the road near the police station. They also demanded the arrest of MLA and Daitari Behera.
The Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, condemned the incident and expressed sympathy towards the family of the deceased. The state's Chief Electoral Officer, Nikunj Bihari Dhal, expressed concern over the situation and instructed the district collector and superintendent of police to restore peace immediately. He emphasized that all measures should be taken to prevent electoral violence. A significant police force has been deployed in the village to control the situation.
