Patnagarh BJD MLA Saroj Meher’s brother was assaulted by BJP workers for allegedly distributing money to influence voters during the polling at Kolpada in Balangir district on Thursday.
The BJP workers alleged that they caught the MLA’s brother Pradeep red-handed while distributing money to people to cast votes in favour of the BJD at Ward Numbers 1, 2 and 3.
Surprisingly, the incident happened in the presence of MLA Saroj Meher at the spot. Sources said BJP workers caught hold of Pradeep, who is in charge of the BJD’ Patnagarh IT Cell, and thrashed him. Later, he was rescued by BJD workers.
Tension prevailed in the area following the incident. Police reached the spot to bring the situation under control. Later, workers of both parties went to the Patnagarh police station. However, no complaints were so far lodged from any side.
In another incident, tension prevailed at Ward-53 under the Madhupatna police station in Cuttack city when a man was caught by locals when he was allegedly distributing cash to influence voters.
The man was severely thrashed by rival party supporters before police arrived at the spot and took him into custody,
It was alleged that he belongs to the BJD, but police refused to reveal his political affiliation.