After witnessing a surge in pre-Panchayat poll violence in several parts of Ganjam district which left many people injured in the past couple of days, senior Odisha Police officials on Friday asserted that stern action will be taken against the trouble makers.
In an exclusive interview to OTV, IG (Southern Range) Satyabrata Bhoi said already clear instructions have been issued to the Superintendent of Police to keep a close watch on the incidents of violence.
“Vulnerable pockets are being identified for appropriate measures. Already several arrests have been made in connection with the recent spate of violence in some Blocks. No leniency will be shown towards those taking law into their hands,” said Bhoi.
It is pertinent to mention here that at least six persons were injured after they were attacked by a rival group when they were on their way to file nomination papers for their candidate for the ensuing Panchayat elections in Ramachandrapur Panchayat under Chikiti Block of the district yesterday.
Similar incident of violence was also reported from Khambari Village under Patrapur Block yesterday.
On January 18, violent clashes reportedly broke out between two groups from Mundamarai village, under Dharakote Block, in the district which had left three persons injured.
Bhoi said some arrests have been made in connection with the recent incidents of group clashes and violence. “We have intensified patrolling and efforts are on to ensure better utilisation and deployment of police force. If required, we will mobilise force from outside,” Bhoi added.