Jharsuguda(Odisha): Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday reached a private hospital in state capital Bhubaneswar where health minister Naba Kishore Das, who suffered a bullet injury earlier in the day, is currently admitted. The CM also spoke to the minister's family members. This comes after Das was shot at by an Assistant Sub-Inspector in Brajrajnagar area of Jharsuguda district.
He was rushed for initial treatment at a hospital in the city before being airlifted to Bhubaneswar. Patnaik, after reaching the hospital, had a discussion with the Health Secretary and other officials.
"Assistant Sub-inspector of Police (ASI) Gopal Das opened fire at the minister. The minister is injured and rushed to hospital," Brajrajnagar SDPO Gupteswar Bhoi told reporters.
Speaking to the media, an official said apart from the minister, another person was also injured in the incident. "Two people were injured in the incident including the minister. The other injured has also been shifted to the hospital. According to a preliminary inquiry, the ASI fired two rounds (at the minister), and also fired two rounds at the sky" IG Deepak Kumar informed.
Naba Das was the chief guest at a public grievance office opening. When he arrived, the crowd gathered to welcome him. Suddenly, a gunshot was heard. We saw police personnel running away after the shooting from close range. The health minister to be airlifted to Bhubaneswar for further treatment, eyewitnesses said.
Meanwhile Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condemned this unfortunate incident. "I am shocked at the unfortunate incident of the attack. I strongly condemn this and pray for his early recovery," he said. Patnaik also added that the Crime Branch has been directed to take up the investigation. Senior officers of the Crime Branch have been asked to go to the spot, he said.
