Bhubaneswar, Jan 4: Dramatic events unfolded when the Bikshit Bharat Sankalp Rath was vandalized in the Dhamanagar assembly segment of Bhadrak district on Wednesday, sparking high tensions.
Local BJP workers, led by MLA Suryabansi Suraj and district President Hemant Padhi, strongly protested the incident by surrounding the Dhamnagar police station on the evening of the same day. Demonstrators obstructed the road in front of the police station, demanding the prompt arrest of those responsible for the Ratha's vandalization.
In response, the local police detained two suspects, while two others remain at large. The four-hour-long protest, which concluded at 9 pm, was called off following assurances from the police administration. The strike, initiated in response to the vandalization, aimed to press authorities to take swift action.
The incident occurred as the Bikshit Bharat Sankalp Rath traversed the Dhamanagar assembly constituency on Thursday. The program, held at Chudakuti ground, included the presence of several government officials, including Dhamnagar MLA Suryashunshi Sural. Post-meeting, videos showcasing various public welfare schemes of the Narendra Modi government were presented.
Amidst the event, four individuals abruptly arrived, resorting to abusive language, tearing a photograph of the Prime Minister, and damaging the vehicle door. The situation escalated despite police intervention, resulting in persistent chaos. Following a four-hour-long agitation at the Dhamnagar police station by BJP workers, the police administration committed to apprehending the culprits within 48 hours, leading to the conclusion of the strike.
