Udala: Tension flared near Teramile Chhak on the Udala-Baripada road in Mayurbhanj district today evening after a couple was critically injured when a vehicle belonging to a BJP MLA allegedly rammed into their moped.

According to reports, the couple from the Khunta area was returning home from the weekly village market on their moped when a speeding Scorpio, bearing registration number OD05AK7493 and reportedly linked to Saraskana BJP MLA Bhadav Hansdah, hit them and dragged the vehicle for several metres. The vehicle eventually came to a halt after crashing into a roadside tree.

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Locals said the four occupants inside the Scorpio fled the scene immediately after the incident. The vehicle was reportedly travelling from the Baripada side.

With the help of locals, the critically injured couple was rushed to the PRM Medical College and Hospital.

Demanding justice for the victims, agitated locals blocked the Udala-Baripada road and set tyres ablaze.

Upon receiving information, Khunta police personnel, along with Tehsildar Om Prakash Mohanty, reached the spot and attempted to pacify the protesters.

The agitators, who were demanding a discussion at the police station and adequate compensation for the injured, withdrew their protest after a three-hour blockade. They called off the demonstration following an assurance from the administration.