Puri: A day after police issued lookout notice against BJP candidate from Satyabadi Assembly constituency Om Prakash Mishra, the latter today released a video message seeking an impartial probe into the EVM vandalisation case. He further said that he had no role in the vandalisation and that he has been conspired.
As per reports, a complaint was lodged against Mishra for allegedly vandalising EVM and thrashing the presiding officer at booth no 78 in Birakishorepur village under Satyabadi police limits of Puri district when third phase polls were underway on April 23.
However, Mishra, who is on the run, today released a video claiming that he saw many booths being rigged in presence of local administration. "Democracy has been murdered. Not a single person has voted as per his/her wish. I have not vandalised any EVM neither did I enter any polling booth. I was standing outside and with the opponents possessing weapons, it was difficult for me to enter inside the booth," he said in the video.
The saffron party candidate further alleged he rushed to the polling station after being informed about BJP poll agents not being allowed inside the booths and that few miscreants allegedly cast votes illegally for others.
"A false complaint was lodged against me after police seized cash and a licensed weapon from my vehicle," added Mishra.
However, Mishra stated that he is ready to face any action if he is proved guilty.
Meanwhile, targeting the BJP over Om Prakash Mishra's role in EVM vandalisation, BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra said, "Om Prakash is reportedly hiding outside the State. BJP Minister should clarify where he is hiding."
Responding to the BJD spokesperson, Odisha BJP vice president Samir Mohanty said, "Our complaint is that a handful of police officials who are displaying undue favour towards the ruling-BJD are only parroting the allegations of Sasmit Patra. They should prove these allegations first."
It is to be noted that two other accused Manoj Samantaray and Akhaya Biswal have been arrested in this connection.