Odisha MLA-SP spat during land acquisition for MCL expansion

Angul: Talcher MLA Braja Kishore Pradhan and Angul SP Jagmohan Meena engaged in a spat during the land acquisition for the expansion project of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) at Hingula in Angul on Tuesday.

As per reports, tension erupted today after locals of Bhalugadiha village protested land acquisition initiated by the administration raising issues like compensation, employment and rehabilitation of the displaced.

Tension intensified after the Talcher MLA joined the protestors and later, he had a spat with the SP at the spot. The locals also reportedly protested the land acquisition move by blocking roads near Colliery Police Station and Handidhua chhak.

"We strongly condemn the inhumane act of the SP who didn't even realise the pain of the displaced locals and attacked them," alleged Pradhan.

He further alleged that the cops detained him including around 400 locals.

The SP couldn't be contacted for his comments on the allegations.