Odisha: Pradeep Panigrahi Claims Threat To Life, Writes To PM For Protection

Berhampur: Three days after an alleged assault on him, the BJP Lok Sabha candidate from Berhampur, Pradeep Panigrahi on Thursday wrote to the Prime Minister, seeking protection while claiming that there is a threat to his life.

In the write, Panigrahi described the May 13 incident as life-threatening as he suffered a fracture in his ribs after allegedly being assaulted by former Berhampur Mayor Sibashankar Das, contesting from Berhampur Assembly seat as an independent, near booth No. 134 in Gosaninuagaon area here. He stated the incident took place while he was having a discussion with on-duty presiding officers and police regarding sealing of the EVMS after the polling for first-round elections ended.

“It is imperative to emphasise that the attack was premeditated and intentional, serving a clear indication of the grave danger I am currently in,” he wrote.

He implored the PM to intervene and ensure that immediate and stringent security measures are in place to safeguard his life. This was not only an attack on him but also the very foundation of democratic values of the country, Pradeep added.

Notably, Sibashankar is currently in judicial custody after being arrested in connection with the incident.

While BJP accused BJD of being behind the attack and restoring to violence for fear of losing the elections, the latter blamed the incident on past feud between the duo. Das was with the BJP and was expelled by the party earlier this month. While Pradeep, who was expelled from BJD for his alleged involvement in a job scam, joined the saffron party in February and soon earned a nomination as its MP candidate from Berhampur.