Former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Supremo Naveen Patnaik has strongly condemned the violent attack on the residence of former Dharmasala MLA and senior BJD leader Pranab Balabantaray.
In a statement, Patnaik said miscreants forcibly entered Balabantaray’s house, vandalised property, and carried out a life-threatening attack on his supporters. He expressed serious concern that such a grave incident took place in broad daylight.
The former Chief Minister questioned the silence of the police administration and the state government, stating that no action has been taken against the accused even after the incident. He said this inaction has shocked the people of Odisha and raised serious doubts about the state of law and order.
Patnaik further criticised the BJP-led state government, asking whether it intends to promote lawlessness and a culture of violence in the state. He asserted that the peace-loving people of Odisha will never accept such disorder and criminal activities.
Calling for immediate intervention, Naveen Patnaik demanded strict and prompt action against those responsible for the attack to ensure justice and restore public confidence in governance.
According to Balabantaray, the incident occurred while party workers had gathered at his house and were, having a meeting. He alleged that supporters of the sitting Dharmasala MLA, Himanshu Sekhar Sahoo’s supporters, entered the premises and resorted to violence. During the attack, several vehicles parked at the residence were allegedly vandalised, and mobile phones of workers were also damaged.
The former MLA claimed that the violence left multiple people injured. At least four persons sustained critical injuries and were shifted to Cuttack-based SCB Medical College and Hospital for advanced medical treatment, while around 15 others are currently undergoing treatment at Dharmasala. He further alleged that more than 15 vehicles were damaged during the incident, resulting in significant loss of property.
