An instance of election officials allegedly influencing voters came to light during polling in Jajpur district on Monday. As a result, three concerned officials Dhirendra Tripathy, Baikuntha Mallick and Janardan Prusty were suspended by the Jajpur district Collector for their alleged attempt to influence voters’ decisions in exercising their franchise. The action was taken on the basis of CCTV footages.
While Prusty was the Fourth Polling Officer of booth no. 196 in Sukinda, Tripathy and Mallick were the Presiding Officers of booth numbers 135 and 191 in Binjharpur.
Furthermore, the Collector also ordered arrest of Mallick as more serious allegations have been levelled against him.