Berhampur, May 16: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condemned the election-related violence in Khallikote, which resulted in one death and multiple injuries.

Expressing his distress on his X handle, Chief Minister Patnaik stated: "Deeply disturbed and saddened by the tragic incident of violence in the Khallikote area. Such acts have no place in our democracy and civil society. I strongly condemn this incident. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family, and I pray for the swift recovery of those injured. I am confident that the police will take strong and exemplary action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime."

The incident, which occurred on Wednesday in Krushna Saranpur village under Khallikote police limits, involved a clash between Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers, resulting in one fatality and eight critical injuries.

In light of the upcoming second phase of elections in the state, Odisha Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Nikuja Bihari Dhal has directed the Ganjam District Collector and Superintendent of Police to take immediate action to prevent further pre-poll violence in the district.

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