The BJD on Friday moved the Odisha Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) against Chilika MLA Prashant Jagdev. The BJD delegation alleged that Prashant assaulted a journalist and some local residents at Jankia area of Khordha district. The incident allegedly took place during BJP's rally which was also attended by the party's Lok Sabha candidate Aparajita Sarangi.
The BJD alleged that the Chilika MLA got angry after a few youths asked some questions. In its complaint, the BJD also alleged that Prashant Jagdev threatened Police after the journalist lodged FIR against him. The party has demanded stern action in connection with the incident.
"The incident occurred yesterday and the behaviour of Chilika MLA shocked everyone. Does it prove that the BJP leader has got license to resort to violence during the upcoming elections? Today, we have brought the matter, in which a working journalist was thrashed by the Chilika MLA, to the notice of the CEO," said BJD Spokesperson, Swayam Prakash Mohapatra.
Responding to the allegation, Chilika MLA Prashant Jagdev said, "The question that was asked was that the light was not working. I then went to the youths and asked about it. Money was paid to people to harass and oppose MP Aparajita Sarangi. A youth was recording when I asked him not to do it."