Jharsuguda/Balasore: Two persons were shot dead in two separate incidents in Jharsuguda and Balasore districts Tuesday.
In the first incident, tension prevailed in Brajarajnagar area in Jharsuguda district as locals called for a bandh after a youth was shot by some unidentified miscreants in the area.
Expressing resentment over the rise in violent activities in the area, locals blocked the NH-49 demanding immediate arrest of the accused persons. Vehicular traffic was disrupted as locals blocked the busy road by burning tyres. Hundreds of vehicles remained stranded on both sides of the road. Shops were also closed down during the bandh.
Youths of the locality also picketed at various intersections in the town. Condemning the violent act and inefficiency of the police, the agitators demanded stringent and immediate action to stop such incidents.
Reportedly, a youth, identified as Amit Dhala, was shot near Brajarajnagar old bus stand while he was playing cards with his friends. Amit, who sustained bullet injuries on his chest, stomach and back, was immediately shifted to hospital. However, he succumbed to injuries at the hospital.
Similarly in Balasore, a milk-trader was shot dead by unidentified assailants at Dangapita village under Baliapala police limits in Balasore district. The deceased was identified as Rakesh Choudhary.
According to sources, the incident took place while Rakesh was on his way home on his bike when a car intercepted him. The miscreants in the four-wheeler opened fire at him. Rakesh died on the spot after being hit by a bullet.
On being informed, police reached the spot. The body was then seized and sent to the local hospital for post-mortem. However, the police were yet to ascertain the exact cause behind the incident. Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the matter.
