Angul: A former sarpanch was found dead under mysterious circumstances in Odisha's Angul district, this morning.

The deceased was identified as Bibhuti Bhushan Garnaik, the former sarpanch of Jerenga Dehuri Sahi panchayat. The 62-year-old's body was found outside his residence. The body bore severe injuries on head and legs.

Reports indicate that Garnaik was sleeping on the roof of his house, last night. It remains unclear whether he fell accidentally or was murdered, prompting an investigation by the local police.

Garnaik was a leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). It has been reported that he was involved in a dispute with his party workers on Saturday, which had resulted in a police complaint.

The circumstances surrounding his death have led to suspicions of foul play.