Bhubaneswar, August 20: Pravat Balabantray, the chairman of the Dharmasala block in Jajapur district, has tendered his resignation, citing personal reasons. His decision comes just days before a scheduled no-confidence meeting, which over 38 samiti members and sarpanches had initiated on August 11.
The meeting was to be held on August 22, but Balabantray submitted his resignation to the Block Development Officer (BDO) beforehand.
In a video message, he said the move was taken to safeguard the interests and security of panchayat representatives. He also thanked the people of Dharamsala for their trust and cooperation during his tenure.
A two-time chairman since 2017, Balabantray has been serving under the banner of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). He is the younger brother of former Dharmasala MLA Pranab Balabantray. His resignation is being seen as a notable political development in the block, which comprises 45 panchayats.
