Odisha Elections 2024: BJP alleges favouritism by presiding officer in Kantamal, 30 injured in police-public faceoff

As many as 30 persons were injured in a police-public face-off following allegations of favouritism by the Presiding Officer to the ruling party during the second phase of polling at Maheswarpinda area under Kantamal Assembly constituency in Boudh district on Monday. 

All the injured were admitted to Manamunda hospital. Later, they were shifted to Sonepur District Headquarters Hospital as their conditions deteriorated. At least five of the injured are reportedly critical.

As per reports, the unsavoury incident happened after some BJP supporters alleged that the presiding officer is showing favouritism to the ruling party and asking voters to vote in favour of BJD at booth number eight. Subsequently, they staged a protest led by BJP candidate Kanhai Charan Danga in front of the booth.

Following the development, tension prevailed in the area as some voters allegedly threw stones at the police. The security personnel reportedly resorted to lathi charge and blank firing to bring the situation under control.

Meanwhile, responding to the development, Boudh Tehsildar said that more information about the incident could be divulged following an investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, BJP candidate from the seat Kanhai Charan Danga has demanded repolling in the booth.