Tension in Nuapada as police raid house of BJD star campaigner Pritiranjan Gharai

High drama unfolded in the Nuapada Assembly constituency segment after police raided the residence of BJD star campaigner Pritiranjan Gharai on Friday. The operation was carried out on Khariar Road in the district, led by two magistrates on duty, and backed by nearly forty police personnel.

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According to sources, the raid created a major stir in the locality. As the police team entered the premises, BJD workers gathered outside and staged a strong protest, shouting slogans and attempting to block the convoy.

The agitation intensified when party leaders demonstrated in front of the District Collector’s vehicle, leading to a brief period of tension at the site.

Authorities have not disclosed any details about the reason for the raid or whether any materials were seized.

Meanwhile, supporters of the Opposition party have alleged that the action was politically motivated, given Gharai’s active role as a star campaigner for the upcoming Nuapada by-election.

Security has been tightened in the locality to prevent further escalation.

“Without any search warrant and without any valid reason, the raid was carried out. The raid team claimed that they acted on the Election Commission order, but could not show any official order. A man named Mr Panda in the team first knocked on the door when our star campaigner, Pritiranjan Gharai, was not present at home. He had gone to his panchayat for electioneering,” senior BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra alleged.

“He (a person who was present at home) asked for time to wear a vest, but was not allowed. They searched the house, and he was sitting nearby. When he asked for a glass of water, he was kicked in his waist instead. Better, you can get the version of Panda Babu. BJD condemns such a barbaric attack,” the senior BJD leader added.

No comments were received from the authorities concerned in this regard.