Tension flared in Bhubaneswar after a commotion broke out outside the quarters of senior BJD leader and former minister Pratap Jena.
Capital police arrested two individuals in connection with the incident, intensifying political attention on the matter.
The case was filed under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Explosive Act following a written complaint by security guard Sujit Mishra (34).
According to the FIR, a group of 15–20 individuals arrived at Jena’s residence around 11 a.m. on 20 March. They allegedly misbehaved with Mishra, assaulted him with slaps and kicks, and attempted to suffocate him with the intent to kill. The attackers also assaulted the caretaker who tried to intervene.
The complaint further stated that the group threw explosive-like materials near the entrance, creating panic. Scientific examination later confirmed the seized remnants were firecrackers, not bombs or lethal devices. Witness statements and video footage supported this finding.
Investigators linked the incident to internal disputes within a political organisation. Police said the attack followed the suspension of certain members for anti-party activities.
During the probe, police arrested Siddhartha Kumar Swain (28) of Jagamara, Bhubaneswar, and Debi Prasad Lenka (34) of Kendrapara, currently residing in Baramunda. Both men were produced in court today. Records revealed Swain was previously involved in a case at Capital PS, while Lenka had a case registered at Kendrapara PS.
Police seized remnants of cracker materials from the spot. Officials confirmed further investigation is underway to identify and arrest other individuals involved.
