Locals torch police van after clash with cops

Puri: A police van was set afire by locals after clash with cops at Charichhak bazaar near Nimapara in the district today following which prohibitory order under section 144 of Cr PC has been clamped.

The market area at Charichhak has turned into a virtual battle ground in the morning when the locals pelted stone at security forces and set the government vehicle on fire after police allegedly lifted social activist Santosh Pradhan forcefully, who sat on a fast-on-to death over disrupting health services in the area.

Pradhan was on a hunger strike in front of the Charichhak Community Health Centre (CHC) since November 18 pressing for 8-point charter of demands including fulfilment of doctors’ post in the local health centre.

The district administration and local MLA had discussed with him and approached him to withdraw his strike three days ago. However, Pradhan refused to do so until his demands are met.

Nimapada SDPO Arun Jena and local sub-collector also met him yesterday and requested for the same on the ground that his health condition has deteriorated.

Police claimed that they have only persuaded the social worker to have food and water. After his health condition worsens, he has been admitted to district headquarters hospital, police added.