Bolangir: Banners and posters threatening to kill Congress leader and Kantabanji MLA Santosh Singh Saluja surfaced in Bolangir district Monday.
The text on the poster stated, “I will kill Santosh Singh Saluja within 15 days.”
The posters, with photographs of an unidentified man, were seized by Kantabanji police as they launched an investigation to apprehend the culprit.
While reacting on this issue, Saluja said the life threat was given for political reasons.
“From some electronic media, I came to know about the incident. As the election is approaching, I am working day and night for the development of my constituency. At this time, someone is directly threatening to kill me- which is shocking,” the MLA said.
“I am not afraid of death for the development of my constituency. If one Saluja dies, hundreds of Saluja will take birth,” he added.
The Congress leader urged the police administration to immediately arrest the person, who has given life threat.
This development, however, has raised concerns about the safety of the MLA, especially considering a previous attack on him in 2015. At that time, Saluja and his cousin were attacked with a sharp weapon while visiting a property they had purchased in Chatuanka village. While the motive behind the attack was never officially confirmed, Saluja accused the ruling party, alleging the involvement of BJD MLA Ayub Khan.
Comments from police could not be obtained on this matter.
PNN & Agencies