Odisha DGP launches SIT inquiry into fatal pre-poll clashes in Khallikote

Berhampur, May 17: The Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) has initiated a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the recent pre-poll violence that resulted in the tragic demise of a BJP worker in the Khallikote area of Ganjam district. An official statement revealed that the SIT is tasked with swiftly apprehending the remaining suspects, gathering substantial evidence (including scientific, forensic, and digital), and presenting a chargesheet within 30 days for expeditious trial. Additionally, the SIT will provide regular status updates to the Inspector General (IG) of Police, Southern Range.

In response to the escalating pre-poll violence in Khalikote, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Radha Krishna Sharma will be stationed at Chhatrapur from May 17th to 21st, overseeing law enforcement measures in Ganjam district during the election period.

The unrest unfolded days before the second-round elections in Odisha, when clashes erupted in Srikrushnasaranpur village under Khallikote police jurisdiction. The altercation stemmed from a dispute over the installation of party banners, leading to the unfortunate demise of a BJP worker, Dillip Kumar Pahana, with three others sustaining severe injuries. Despite medical intervention at MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Pahana succumbed to his injuries, while one injured individual was rushed to AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, due to deteriorating health.

Sources revealed that some of the injured individuals had previously been affiliated with the BJD but had recently switched allegiance to the BJP, citing dissatisfaction with candidate selection for the Khallikote Assembly seat. Subsequently, BJP activists staged a protest outside the Khallikote police station, demanding swift action against the assailants and temporarily obstructing traffic between Khallikote and Bhubaneswar.

To date, the police have apprehended nine individuals in connection with the incident, as investigations continue into the tragic episode of pre-poll violence.