Bhubaneswar: Bolagarh block in Khordha district witnessed intensified protests and violent clashes on Wednesday as long-standing grievances against Block Development Officer (BDO) Suman Sudha Kundu boiled over.
After nine days of sustained agitation by local elected representatives, including the block chairperson, the situation turned chaotic when protesters attempted to enter the block office, leading to confrontations with police. The core dispute stems from allegations that the BDO disrespected the local MLA by skipping the joint Republic Day parade and celebrations, remaining absent from the program, and allegedly insulting elected representatives.
This incident, combined with broader claims of arbitrary administration, non-cooperation in development projects, and demands for PC has fuelled widespread resentment. Protesters, led by Bolagarh block chairperson Hulas Pradhan, have been adamant in demanding the immediate transfer or replacement of the BDO and strict action against her.
“We sat on dharna for the last nine days. I am not allowed to work. When I attempted to enter the block office, police locked the gate and restricted me. Our protesters tried to enter, and police clashed with them,” Pradhan stated amid the escalating tension.
The agitation escalated dramatically today, with reports of vandalism to the BDO’s official vehicle. Protesters clashed with police, who responded with heavy deployment, including Additional SPs from two nearby stations. The situation raised concerns of further threats if demands remain unmet.
The ongoing standoff has disrupted normal functioning in the block, with locals and representatives warning of intensified action if the BDO is not removed.
