Panchayat poll draws first blood in Dhenkanal 

For the first time, panchayat elections in the State turned violent with the murder of a BJP supporter in Dhenkanal on Saturday.

DHENKANAL: For the first time, panchayat elections in the State turned violent with the murder of a BJP supporter in Dhenkanal on Saturday. Party workers and locals were staging a demonstration over the killing on Dhenkanal-Angul road till the report was filed.

Salman Rout of Tarava Godisahi under Sadar police limits in the district was shot dead by four persons allegedly in the presence of some local BJD leaders. Another Bikram Mallick sustained head injuries.

Sources said while Salman is a supporter of the BJP, the accused has been identified as Byomkesh Biswal who is said to be closely associated with the BJD. 

The incident occurred when Salman was pasting a poster on wall. Four BJD supporters opened fire at him. Bikram, who was standing close to him, was also injured. Salman was rushed to the DHH where he was declared brought dead. BJP leader and former legislator Krushna Chandra Patra along with party leaders rushed to the hospital. 

Relatives and supporters of the victim staged a demonstration on Dhenkanal-Angul road with the body. As tension mounted, security was beefed up in and around the DHH. Collector Roopa Rosha Sahoo, DRDA Project Director, Madhusudan Mishra and other senior administrative and police officials rushed to the hospital.

Bikram alleged before mediapersons that Sadar block vice-chairman along with three BJD workers were involved in the firing.

State BJP president basant Panda and leader of the BJP legislature party have condemned the killing.

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