Nuapada: Block Development Officer (BDO) of Odisha’s Nuapada Rohit Bhoi was allegedly attacked inside the block office premises on Monday, triggering tension in the area.
As per information, the attack was sparked by a dispute over the construction of the Bhaisatal Panchayat building. Though the construction work has been taken up following an order by the Orissa High Court, some people reportedly opposed it.
Sources said some miscreants barged into the office of the BDO and entered into an argument with him. Amid verbal altercation, some of them allegedly assaulted the BDO.
Following the incident, Bhoi immediately approached the local police station and lodged a complaint.
A police team, including the Nuapada SDPO, rushed to the block office to assess the situation. While the main accused involved in the attack was arrested, a hunt is on for the rest, police said.
Reacting sharply to the attack, Block employees staged a dharna and launched a pen down strike in protest, demanding strict action against those responsible. They condemned the attack and called for stronger security measures for government officials working on development projects.
Officials said the construction of the Panchayat building was being carried out in Baloda as per a High Court order. However, some villagers opposed the location, leading to repeated tensions.
Koraput DIG K.V. Singh confirmed the arrest and assured that the police are investigating the case and others involved in the incident would be taken into custody soon.
