Gopalpur MLA Pradeep Panigrahi heckled by ‘BJD workers’, shown black flag on way to I-D event

Gopalpur MLA Pradeep Panigrahi was allegedly heckled by BJD workers in his home constituency on the occasion of Independence Day on Monday.

The incident took place when the legislator was on his way to Kamalapur village under Rangeilunda block to hoist flag at an Independence Day event.

On the way, Panigrahi's vehicle was stopped by the alleged BJD members who shouted slogans against him. The MLA was allegedly assaulted and shown black flags by the ruling-party supporters.  

Tension erupted at the spot following the incident. Panigrahi was seen being escorted out of the crowd by police personnel. Soon a scuffle broke out between Panigrahi's supporters and the alleged BJD workers.

Despite the opposition, Panigrahi reached Kamalapur and hoisted the Tricolour.

It can be mentioned here that Panigrahi was suspended from the ruling BJD on charges of corruption. He was arrested in connection with an alleged job scam and released on bail in June.