Political rivalry behind attack on Talcher youth?

Angul: Even though the 2019 general elections in Odisha are over, political violence still continues. This was again evident after a youth was allegedly attacked by his political opponent at Santhapada village in Talcher.

The injured, Sushant Samal is now undergoing treatment at the district headquarters hospital.

As per reports, Sushant was attacked by one Saroj Samal of the same village. Sources said the duo had picked up an enmity during the general elections.

“There was ongoing rivalry which was continuing since elections. Today, they attacked me,” alleged Sushant.

The brother of injured Sushant alleged that Saroj is the president of Biju Yuva Vahini in the village and he attacked Sushant with a sharp weapon near village temple.

“The condition of my brother is critical. I was at home when the attack took place. The president of the Biju Yuva Vahini is behind the attack,” said Sushant’s brother Sanjay.

Rajesh Das, coordinator of Biju Yuva Vahini, on the other hand, claimed that “The person against whom allegations are being made is neither a member nor holds any post in Biju Yuva Vahini in the panchayat. The matter is being politicised.”