High drama unfolded at Lanjipalli in Ganjam district as BJD workers intercepted the car carrying Gopalpur MLA Pradeep Panigrahy while the legislator was on his way for a visit in the district.
The BJD workers gathered on the portion of the road and stopped the vehicle as they opposed the MLA’s visit with slogan ‘Go back’.
Tension ran high as a scuffle ensued between the BJD workers and supporters of Panigrahy. Some of the party workers allegedly manhandled the legislator.
The situation turned ugly when the BJD workers hurled eggs, water bottles and stones at the vehicle.
Panigrahy, who has since long been suspended from the BJD, sent a mail regarding the situation to the Chief Minister’s Office, Chief Secretary, DGP and Home Department to resolve the issue. He also telephoned the local SP asking for road clearance.
Police picked up several persons from the spot in order to ease the tension.
“We will not allow the MLA to move. He was involved in the chit fund scam. He also duped many youths on the pretext of providing them jobs,” said a BJD worker.
Panigrahy said. “I have the right to visit my constituency as an elected representative. The protest incident is very unfortunate. I have lost my faith on the administration as the concerned officials did nothing to resolve the issue while I remained stuck at the spot.”
Notably, 5T Secretary VK Pandian began his three-day visit to Ganjam from Friday. On August 15, Panigrahy had said he would visit his constituency during the 5T Secretary’s tour to Ganjam.