Fear psychosis intensifies in Kandhamal as polling-date nears

By Sai Prasan

Phulbani (Kandhamal), April 13

Orissa police chasing Ashok Sahu, the BJP candidate for Phulbani Lok Sabha seat, for violating model code of conduct has jacked up the political temperature in Orissa’s riot hit Southern district. The Sangh Parivar leadership threatening of dire consequences, in a hurried called press conference here on Sunday night, in case of Sahu’s arrest has further intensified the fear psychosis in the district.

The Sangh leaders alleged that the M-3 factor is responsible for the move to arrest Sahu following an FIR by the district administration against the BJP candidate. By M-3 factor, the Sangh Parivar means Mukhyamantri, Maoist and Missionaries. This politically motivated statement before the polling date on April 16 has shaken all in the disturbed area.

The writers of this report found that the disturbed areas including Raikia, Tikabali, Phirmgia, Daringbadi and a few other interior pockets are virtually under saffron seize. The Saffron flag is waving at the top of the houses including some Churches. An uneasily calm is prevailing in the affected area..

Interestingly, the majority of Central forces prefer to move in the civilian dress mainly for two reasons. One, to avoid Red Rebels and second, to hide the identity from the locals who are opposed to their presence in the area.
The inhabitants of these areas monitor the movements of the strangers. And, they note down the number of non-local vehicles entering into the area and reportedly send to all other villages.

The violence is expected to resurface in Kandhamal in case Sahu is arrested before the polling date. The security has been tightened in Phulbani district to meet any kind of riot like situation.
Ends