In a disturbing development, banners and posters threatening to kill Congress MLA Santosh Singh Saluja within 15 days were discovered in Kantabanji town, near Girls High School and Goru Bazaar in Odisha’s Balangir district. The banner prominently featured the image of an unidentified youth claiming responsibility for the threat against the MLA.
Local authorities have swiftly responded to the incident, with police seizing the threatening banner and launching an investigation into the matter. MLA Santosh Singh Saluja has expressed grave concern over the threats, emphasizing that he has lodged a complaint with police officials and urged the state government to take immediate action.
Speaking to ANI, Saluja condemned the intimidation tactics, particularly amidst ongoing election activities, stating, “Some opposition people are doing all this to demoralize me. But I would like to tell you that I am a Congress MLA and I will not be afraid. If one Saluja dies, 100 more will be born.”
Expressing further urgency for government intervention, Saluja highlighted the recent tragic incident involving Health Minister Naba Das, who was shot at by an Odisha Police ASI last year in Jharsuguda district. Das succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment, underscoring the gravity of threats against public officials.
As authorities continue their investigation, concerns over political violence and intimidation loom large, underscoring the need for swift and decisive action to ensure the safety and security of elected representatives and citizens alike.
