8 Arrested After Pre-Poll Violence Claims One Life in Ganjam District

Berhampur: Eight persons were arrested on Thursday in relation to the killing of a person during a pre-poll clash between two rival political groups in the Khallikote police station area on Wednesday night.

According to sources, the main accused behind the violent clash is still absconding. One person died and seven others were injured in this political clash at Sri Krishna Sharanpur village under the Khallikote police station limits.

Expressing concern over the incident, the Chief Electoral Officer, Odisha, Nikunja Bihari Dhal has directed the Ganjam Collector and SP to take immediate measures to stop any kind of violence and bring peace in the region. “There is zero tolerance towards violence during elections,” he added.

According to reports, this violent clash occurred between the supporters of the BJP and the over putting up of election posters. The deceased has been identified as Dilip Pahan.