Titlagarh MLA Naveen Jain triggered a political uproar after firing blank rounds during a Ram Navami procession on Friday afternoon.
The incident occurred at Shastrichowk while the religious rally moved from Radhakrishna Temple in Thikadarpada.
Eyewitnesses saw the MLA raise a firearm and fire three blank rounds in the air. His PSO, Premchand Nag, assisted him during the act, which unfolded in full view of police personnel.
Videos of the incident went viral across social media and news platforms, prompting swift action from Balangir SP Abhilash J. Based on preliminary evidence, the SP suspended the PSO and confirmed that the weapon used was real.
Titilagarh police registered a case against both Naveen Jain and Premchand Nag. Additional SP Himanshu Behera and Titilagarh IIC Manoj Munda are leading the investigation.
A police team visited the MLA’s office on Saturday evening for an inquiry. However, Jain did not respond to media queries. Some reports claimed he used a toy gun to energise the crowd, but no official statement has been released.
The incident has reignited debates over political conduct during religious events. Naveen Jain has faced previous controversies, including allegations of shielding the accused in attempted murder cases.
