TPSODL staff hacked to death over inflated electricity bill in Odisha's Ganjam

Bhanjanagar/Ganjam: In a glaring cold-blooded murder, a youth who had come for an electricity meter reading, was allegedly hacked to death by a consumer over an inflated bill in Tarasingh area of Odisha's Ganjam district today. Another local who tried coming to his rescue also suffered injuries.

The shocking incident was reported from Kupati village early on Monday morning. The deceased was identified as Laxmi Narayan Tripathy of Gallery village, a metering staff employed by TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL).

As per reports, Tripathy had come to Kupati village for meter reading at one Govind Shetty's house. As the reading was way higher than what Shetty anticipated, he got infuriated and attacked Tripathy on the neck with a sharp weapon. While Tripathy collapsed and succumbed under the impact of the fatal blow, one of the villagers Rinku Nayak, who was present at the spot and tried to intervene, suffered injuries as well and had one of the fingers of his left hand severed as Shetty attacked him too.

As a scuffle ensued, villagers gathered at the spot and gheraoed Shetty. Meanwhile, police on getting information, reached the spot and rescued Shetty from the angry mob and shifted him to a hospital. Official sources said the exact cause of Tripathy's death will be ascertained after the post-mortem report arrives. A case has been registered and an investigation is underway.

On the other hand, TPSODL in a statement said, “We stand in solidarity with the authorities, maintaining open communication as they work tirelessly to apprehend the accused. Our internal review confirms that there were no bill-related disputes involving the accused. Simultaneously, we are actively collaborating with local communities and authorities to ensure the continued safety and well-being of our employees and Business Associates. We want to reiterate that the safety and security of our colleagues are of paramount importance and TPSODL never compromises on that. Mr. Tripathy's dedication and commitment made him a valued member of our team, leaving an indelible mark on all of us.”