BJD workers oppose MLA Pradeep Panigrahy’s visit to Ganjam, intercept his car

Berhampur: High drama unfolded at Lanjipalli in Odisha’s Ganjam as BJD workers intercepted the car carrying Gopalpur MLA Pradeep Panigrahy while the legislator was on his way to the district for a visit.

Hundreds of BJD workers gathered on the portion of the road and stopped the vehicle as they opposed the MLA’s visit. Holding placards, they resorted to ‘Go Back’ sloganeering against the MLA near the car.

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 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 enter Ganjam. He was involved in the chit fund scam. He also duped many youths on the pretext of providing them jobs,” said one of the BJD workers.

Expressing displeasure, MLA 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 commenced his 3-day visit to Ganjam from today. On August 15, the MLA had said he will visit his constituency during the 5T Secretary’s tour to Ganjam.