Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Kendrapara, Jan 23:

The State Election Commission (SEC) has sought reports from Kendrapara Collector and concerned poll observer in connection with the alleged fraudulent withdrawal of nomination papers of two Samiti Sabhya candidates of Penthapala panchayat of the district.

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The Commission’s Secretary Rabindra Sahu has informed that next step will be taken after reports are available.

The two female Samiti Sabhya candidates-Pramila Mallick and Gayatri Sethy have lodged written complaints against Kendrapara MLA Kishore Tarai and Pattamundai BDO with the police in this connection.

The two have alleged in their complaints that the MLA with the help of the BDO had fraudulently managed to withdraw their nominations without their knowledge.

It is worthwhile to mention here that MLA Kishore Tarai’s wife Babita Tarai along with Gayatri Sethy, Pramila Mallick and Nirupama Mallick had filed nominations as Samiti Sabhya candidates from Penthapala panchayat. Pattamundai BDO on Saturday-the last day for withdrawal of nominations announced that since three other candidates have withdrawn their nominations, Babita Tarai has been elected as Samiti Sabhya unopposed from Penthapala panchayat. The development had led to tension in the area.