In a tense atmosphere leading up to the by-election in Nuapada district, a blank firing incident from a Personal Security Officer’s (PSO) gun has sparked controversy and heightened security concerns.
The event occurred late Friday night at a hotel in Komna, where political leaders have been camping amid intense campaigning.
According to reports, the PSO, identified as Dambaru Hantal, assigned to the Koraput MLA from the ruling party, accidentally discharged a blank round from his firearm at Sankalp Hotel in Komna block chowk. The incident has left local voters anxious, especially with ministers, MLAs, and leaders from various parties stationed across the district’s hotels, turning Nuapada into a mini political hub akin to Bhubaneswar.
Komna police swiftly responded to the scene and initiated an investigation. They detained Hantal, seized his gun and the spent cartridge, and registered a case (No. 319/25) under relevant sections. Station Officer Rashmita Pradhan confirmed that a further probe is underway.
The opposition Congress party condemned the incident, staging a protest by gheraoing the Komna police station and demanding Hantal’s immediate arrest.
In response to the controversy, the Koraput Superintendent of Police (SP) has suspended PSO Dambaru Hantal.
The BJD accused the BJP of resorting to such tactics to influence the election outcome. However, following a preliminary investigation, the SP ordered the seizure of Hantal’s weapon and appointed a Sub-Inspector (SI) to conduct a detailed inquiry into the matter.
With the by-election fervour at its peak, this incident underscores the volatile political climate in Nuapada, where security and voter confidence are now under scrutiny.
