BJD workers allegedly attack Zee Media reporter in Odisha, 1 arrested

BJD workers in Odisha's Kaktapur allegedly attacked a reporter of Zee Media after a number of people he interviewed said negative remarks about the local MLA. The attack was allegedly carried out by supporters of BJD's Kaktapur MLA Surendra Sethi.

The attack allegedly happened when Zee Media reporter Chandan Paikaray was interviewing locals in the coastal village of Astaranga in Odisha's Puri District for the Election Express programme.

Followers of the local MLA, Sethi, intervened, accusing the reporter of carrying out his work in an unprofessional manner. This reportedly came after a number of the people being interviewed by the reporter said negative things about the MLA. Sethi's followers reacted in this manner seemingly in fear that the negative remarks could affect Sethi's chances of retaining the BJD ticket in the Kakatpur (SC) constituency.

A case has been lodged at the Kakatpur Police Station and one person has been arrested so far.

The BJD faces what could be its toughest battle yet after 19 years in power. Its strongest challenge is expected to come from former ally BJP. A number of BJD leaders, both at the state and national levels, have jumped ship and joined the BJP.

Opinion polling has shown the BJP nipping at the BJD's heels in what seems set to be a heated contest.