Pre-Panchayat Poll Violence: Sarpanch Candidate ‘Attacked’ In Odisha's Kendrapara

Ahead of the Panchayat Elections in Odisha, a Sarpanch candidate from Juania Panchayat under Aul Block in Kendrapara district has alleged that he and his family members were murderously attacked after he filed nomination for the upcoming polls, on late Thursday night. 

The candidate has been identified as Prashant Samal.

As per Samal’s complaint with the police, a group of 30 miscreants armed with weapons forcefully entered his house and assaulted his family members. “They told them I should back my nomination and don’t contest the polls, failing which they warned of dire consequences,” Samal said.

 Samal has alleged that the attack was masterminded by his rival, Subrat Nayak. 

"My rival nominee Subrat  Nayak is behind the attack. He has threatened to kill me,” added Samal.

On the other hand, Nayak said that there was no truth in Samal's claims. He said that he was sleeping in his house and got to know about the incident only after some villagers informed him.

Meanwhile, the local police refused to comment on the complaint by stating that the investigation is underway.