Angry crowd surrounds Chandbali BJD MLA amid Durga Puja festivities

In a tense turn of events, Chandbali BJD MLA Byomakesh Ray allegedly faced strong opposition from local residents while attempting to visit the Durga puja pandal in Kheranga block in Bhadrak district. According to sources, the BJD legislator was unable to pay obeisance to the goddess due to the hostile environment created by the crowd.

Eyewitnesses said that a section of villagers surrounded the MLA and verbally abused him, accusing him of corruption related to pension distribution. The situation escalated into chaos with scuffles breaking out and visible agitation among the crowd. 

Police reached the spot promptly and managed to bring the situation under control, preventing any major escalation. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and calm was eventually restored after the brief standoff.

According to sources, the altercation erupted after the BJD MLA and his supporters tore down BJP banners and posters at the site, which further fueled the anger of the villagers. During the confrontation, a scuffle broke out, forcing the MLA to leave the area without completing his visit.

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Attempts to obtain a reaction from MLA Byomakesh Ray regarding the incident were unsuccessful.