2024 elections: Political violence and murders on a rise in Ganjam

It seems that Ganjam is now on the boil following a steep rise in political violence in the run-up to the crucial 2024 elections. Two murders in the past 24 hours in the district have now emerged as a major concern and raised questions on existing security measures in the area.

As per initial reports, a youth BJD leader Anil Mohanty was found dead at Baruguda in Dharakote and Sunil Nahak, a relative of Aska block chairman was also murdered in the past 24 hours. Sources said Nahaka was bludgeoned to death at Danapur in Khallikote area last night. Sources said Sunil had come to attend a feast organised on the occasion of Ganesh puja immersion ceremony.

It is alleged that Sunil picked up a quarrel during the ceremony and he was killed subsequently. The exact reason behind Sunil’s killing is still unclear. His body was spotted lying on the road for long hours in the area. Later, police along with forensic team reached the spot and started an investigation into the incident.

Not only these two incidents, a youth BJD leader Madhu Bisoi was also murdered at Kumarpani village last month. Similarly, one person had died in a political violence in Digapahandi area some six months back.