Congress workers ransack Purighat police station; case registered

Cuttack: Congress workers today ransacked Purighat police station and staged a road blockade protesting arrest of one of their members, who tried to barge into the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) office during the 'Bharat Bandh' observed by the party yesterday.

"Even though we observed yesterday's bandh in a peaceful manner, police picked up one of our members from his home to settle scores. Such action of the police is condemnable as they should work for the people," Congress’ Cuttack Nagar president Mohammed Moquim said.

He further said that there was no violence during the bandh and if police files case against their worker, the party is ready to fight.

Meanwhile, Cuttack DCP Akhileshwar Singh said that police picked up the said Congress leader as a warrant was issued against him.

"One Bijay Kumar Barik was picked based on the warrant issued against him. However, protesting the arrest Moquim threatened Purighat IIC to release Barik. Later, 40-50 supporters of Moquim entered the police station and indulged in vandalism. They also had a scuffle with the police personnel," said Singh, adding that legal action will be taken against all those involved in the incident.

Later in the day, a case was registered by the police against Moquim and party workers.