Dharmendra Pradhan – Odisha Police Detain BJD and Congress Workers During Protest
Dharmendra Pradhan –Several workers belonging to the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress were taken into preventive custody by Jharsuguda Police on Sunday after they attempted to protest against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Dharmendra Pradhan. The demonstration was planned as Pradhan was travelling towards Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda.
Police Cite Security Concerns
Jharsuguda Additional Superintendent of Police James Samad said the protesters were detained as a precautionary step. According to the police, the move was intended to prevent any possible security issue and ensure that Pradhan’s movement through the area remained orderly.
The detained opposition workers were taken to a nearby police station. Police officials maintained that the action was preventive and aimed at avoiding a direct confrontation between supporters of rival political parties.
Protesters Stopped Near Airport
Security personnel were deployed along the route taken by Pradhan and around the airport ahead of his arrival. The police also restricted the protesters from entering the airport premises, keeping the demonstration away from the immediate area through which the BJP leader was expected to pass.
Samad said the situation remained under control throughout the episode. He added that there was no incident of violence or disruption and that Pradhan was able to enter the airport without facing any obstruction.
“There was no problem at all,” Samad said, adding that the protesters were not permitted to enter the airport area.
BJP Supporters Gather at Airport
While opposition workers attempted to demonstrate against the BJP MP, a significant number of BJP workers and supporters assembled at the airport to receive Pradhan. Their presence increased political activity in the vicinity as police worked to maintain separation between the two groups.
The additional security deployment was intended to ensure that the arrival programme proceeded smoothly and that competing political groups did not come into direct contact.
Political Tensions Surround Pradhan
Pradhan has recently faced political criticism over the controversy surrounding the NEET-UG examination. The issue has triggered protests and demands for accountability, with opposition parties continuing to raise questions over the handling of the examination controversy.
The Jharsuguda incident comes against that wider political backdrop, with opposition workers seeking to register their protest during Pradhan’s visit. Police, however, prevented the demonstration from reaching the airport and took several participants into custody as a preventive measure.
Police Maintain Tight Security
Authorities continued to maintain a security cordon around Veer Surendra Sai Airport while Pradhan was in the area. The police presence was aimed at preventing clashes and ensuring uninterrupted movement for the BJP leader.
Officials said the situation remained peaceful and that there was no untoward incident during Pradhan’s arrival. The protesters were kept outside the airport premises, while BJP supporters remained in the designated area to welcome the MP.
The episode reflects the heightened political activity surrounding Pradhan and demonstrates the security measures being adopted by local authorities when senior political leaders face planned demonstrations during public movements.