Odisha Health Minister Naba Das was shot by a policeman on Sunday while he was on his way to attend a programme at Gandhi Chowk in Jharsuguda's Brajarajnagar. According to eyewitnesses, the accused presented Das with a bouquet. The minister has been brought to the Jharsuguda airport for airlifting to Bhubaneswar. The accused ASI was nabbed by locals, who then handed him over to the police, according to police officials.
Speaking about the incident an eyewitness said, "At a public grievance office opening, Naba Das was the chief guest. When he arrived, crowd gathered to welcome him. Suddenly, a gunshot was heard. We saw police personnel running away after shooting from close range; Minister to be air lifted to Bhubaneswar."
CM expresses grief, directs Crime Branch to investigate matter
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed grief over the incident. Condemning the act he said, I am shocked at the unfortunate incident of attack. I strongly condemn this & pray for his early recovery. Crime Branch is directed to take up investigation. Senior officers of Crime Branch are asked to go to the spot." Also, he visited him at the private hospital where he is under medical treatment.
Accused identified as ASI
The sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) said that the Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI) fired from his police revolver. The police further said that the accused is being interrogated. It is to be noted that the service revolver had been issued to Gopal Das yesterday for security purpose during the Minister's visit. The accused ASI was nabbed by locals, who then handed him over to the police, he said.
"ASI Gopal Das opened fire at the minister. The minister is injured and rushed to hospital," Brajrajnagar SDPO Gupteswar Bhoi told reporters.
Minister caught watching porn in Vidhan Sabha
Recently, the health minister was caught watching porn in the assembly. Following this, he was suspended for a week. The police further said the accused fired four to five rounds with his service revolver at the minister's chest. The incident took place during a public meeting attended by at least 10 to 15,000 supporters when the policeman opened fire.
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