Naveen Patnaik Slams Armed Attack on Former MLA Pranab Balabantray, Questions Odisha Law & Order

According to reports, the incident occurred in Madhupurgada Gram Panchayat under Jenapur police limits while Balabantray was participating in the BJD’s grassroots outreach programme.

The former legislator alleged that a group of 40 to 50 armed individuals attacked him and his supporters with weapons, including swords and axes. Several supporters narrowly escaped injuries during the violence.

Balabantray claimed that three vehicles, including his own, were damaged during the attack.

He subsequently lodged a complaint, seeking immediate registration of an FIR, preservation of CCTV and mobile phone footage, recovery of the weapons used, and police protection for himself and witnesses.

Reacting sharply to the incident, Naveen Patnaik questioned the prevailing law and order situation in the state and asked whether criminals had become emboldened enough to attack public representatives in broad daylight.

He also sought accountability from law enforcement agencies and the state government.

The former MLA alleged that the attackers were linked to supporters of sitting Dharmasala MLA Himanshu Sekhar Sahoo.

The allegation comes amid ongoing political rivalry in the constituency following the 2024 Assembly elections.

Meanwhile, supporters of Balabantray gathered at the office of the Superintendent of Police demanding the immediate arrest of those involved.

Police officials said that the complaint is being examined and evidence collected before further action is taken.

The incident has triggered a fresh political confrontation in Odisha, with opposition voices citing it as evidence of deteriorating law and order, while authorities maintain that investigations will proceed based on available evidence and legal procedures.