Attack on Dharmasala MLA: Tension continues to prevail at Biraja haat, 6 detained

A day after Dharmasala MLA Himanshu Sahoo was attacked by alleged supporters of BJD organizational secretary Pranab Prakash Das near the Budhapola area of Jajpur district, police on Thursday detained six persons in this connection.

The detentions were made following a series of coordinated raids at various locations in the region. Meanwhile, the authorities are keeping a vigilant eye on the developments, with close monitoring by Sanjay Kumar, the Assistant Director General of Police (ADG), who is overseeing efforts to ensure peace in potential hotspots.

Enhanced security measures have been implemented in sensitive areas as a precautionary step. Police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining order and preventing any escalation of tension.

As per reports, MLA Himanshu Sahoo was on his way to attend a meeting when he was attacked by alleged supporters of Bobby Das. The attackers thrashed him and snatched his gold chain. They also damaged Himanshu’s vehicle.

Also Read: Dharmasala MLA Himanshu Sahoo attacked in Jajpur

However, Bobby Das’ brother claimed that it was the MLA who got into a heated argument with the protesters that led to the scuffle.

“Jajpur residents were staging a protest when Dharmasala MLA Himanshu Sahoo intervened and talked to them in a harsh manner. This infuriated the public later attacked him. After learning about the incident, I personally reached out to him and apologized. Let the police conduct a probe and arrest us if we are wrong. It is the MLA who first started the fight and later the public reacted. We have never taught anyone to attack the MLA. If the MLA thinks we orchestrated the attack, then let the police arrest me,” stated Bobby Das’ brother Bhaba Prakash.   

When contacted, Odisha Deputy CM KV Singh Deo said that no one involved in the attack will be spared.

“Our government will not spare anyone who is involved in the attack. Without any doubt, we will launch a thorough probe and the culprit will be taken to task,” the Deputy CM stated.