Gopalpur MLA Pradeep Panigrahy Alleges Security Disparities Amidst Altercation with BJD Workers

Berhampur: Gopalpur MLA, Pradeep Panigrahy, expressed concerns over the disparity in security arrangements between public representatives and officials, following an incident involving an egg attack on his vehicle and alleged manhandling. Panigrahy questioned the allocation of a 4000-strong police force for a private secretary’s security, while he himself lacked adequate security.

Panigrahy was reportedly confronted by BJD supporters and prevented from proceeding while en route to Kanishi in Ganjam. He had announced his visit to Kanishi on the same day as Pandian and said that he had been facing continuous threats and assaults since then.

Panigrahy contacted the Superintendent of Police (SP) for assistance and requested police arrangements for his meeting in Kanishi. Although the SP agreed, no arrangements had been made at the time of Panigrahy’s statement. The MLA criticized the disparity, emphasizing that 4,000 police personnel safeguard a private secretary while no security is extended to an elected MLA.

Panigrahy also called on the Chief Minister to restore democracy in Odisha and eliminate bureaucratic influence. He likened bureaucratic influence to termite infestation, adversely affecting the state.

An altercation reportedly occurred near the Lanjipalli flyover, where BJD workers intercepted Panigrahy. This led to a heated argument between the MLA’s supporters and the ruling party workers, who alleged that Panigrahy was subjected to mistreatment.

The BJD and police administration have yet to issue statements regarding the incident.

Earlier, BJP workers protested the visit of the 5T secretary by waving black towels as a symbol of opposition. Despite the preventive detention of Alok Satpathy, the secretary of BJP Ghumusar Yuva Morcha, the party staged a significant demonstration against the 5T secretary’s visit.