Kantabanji MLA–Councillor confrontation under Police scanner; BJD leader detained

An investigation has been initiated into a confrontation between Kantabanji MLA Laxman Bag and BJD councillor Imran Khan, prompting intervention by the Railway Police. Tensions escalated after Khan, also known locally as Bunty and a councillor of Kantabanji NAC, was detained for questioning in connection with the incident.

The dispute reportedly stemmed from a face-off on December 3 at the Kantabanji railway station over the movement of migrant labourers. On Thursday, both the MLA and the councillor lodged written complaints against each other at the Railway Police Station.

Rayagada SDPRO Prabhat Kumar Tripathy is supervising the inquiry. He visited the MLA’s residence to record his statement and reviewed CCTV footage at the GRP Station in Kantabanji. Police confirmed that Khan, who allegedly issued death threats to the MLA, remains in custody for further interrogation.

According to reports, MLA Bag was travelling when he noticed around 300 labourers being transported. He intervened, alerted the task force and warned those involved against engaging in unlawful activities. While several people fled, police detained the remaining labourers. Councillor Khan later arrived at the station, leading to a heated exchange between the two leaders.

MLA Bag initially alleged that Khan was involved in the illegal transportation of labourers—a claim Khan denied, stating he had only gone to meet a friend. Both leaders subsequently filed counter-complaints after an argument at the GRP Police Station.

Detention for Questioning

SDPRO Prabhat Tripathy said, “A case has been registered under Section 126 at the GRP Police Station in Titlagarh. We are currently investigating. We have handed over the FIR copy to the MLA and recorded his statement. We will verify the allegations and take appropriate action. Bunty is currently in our custody.”