Why Did BJP Leader Jagannath Pradhan Receive a Hero's Welcome After Jail Release?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jagannath Pradhan was released from jail after seven days.
- The incident involves an assault on OAS officer Ratnakar Sahoo.
- The BJP showcased strong support for Pradhan during his rally.
- Pradhan accused the opposition of conspiring against him.
- The OASA demanded justice following the incident.
Bhubaneswar, July 9 (NationPress) Senior BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan was greeted with a vibrant welcome on Wednesday after being released from Jharpada jail on bail, having spent seven days in judicial custody related to the attack on senior Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) officer and Additional Commissioner of Bhawaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), Ratnakar Sahoo, on June 30.
The Khurda District and Sessions Court approved Pradhan's bail concerning Case No. 280/25 filed at Kharavel Nagar Police Station. The bail was issued with a surety of Rs 30,000 and one guarantor.
Upon his release, thousands of fervent supporters gathered outside the jail and marched with him to the BJP headquarters. The crowd chanted slogans in favor of Pradhan, transforming the event into a significant political demonstration of strength.
BJP MLA Babu Singh and numerous senior party officials participated in the rally, emphasizing the party's unwavering support for Pradhan amidst the ongoing turmoil.
Describing himself as a disciplined party worker, Pradhan stated, “I have consistently condemned the unfortunate event that occurred on June 30. I have no direct or indirect involvement in this incident, as was demonstrated today. I extend my gratitude to the judiciary and my party leaders.”
He further alleged that the opposition party orchestrated a scheme to frame him, and the OAS association fell victim to it.
On June 30, during a public grievance meeting at the BMC office, a group of six to seven unidentified individuals unlawfully entered the premises and attacked Sahoo after reportedly inquiring if he had spoken with BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan.
The Odisha Administrative Service Association (OASA) promptly condemned the attack and initiated mass leave, demanding the arrest of all individuals involved, including Pradhan.
Pradhan was taken into custody by the Commissionerate police after surrendering at the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar, on July 3.