TNI Bureau: The son of Bargarh MLA Ashwini Sarangi, was allegedly assaulted by a group of agitated protesters at Bardol Chowk on the Bargarh–Bhatli road while attempting to pass through a road blockade. The incident occurred on the night of February 2, 2026, but it came to light only yesterday that the MLA’s son was among those involved.

The protesters had staged the blockade following the death of a woman in an oil tanker accident, bringing vehicular movement to a halt. Reportedly, the MLA’s son, along with his friends, was travelling in an SUV and allegedly tried to force his way through the blockade, defying the protesters.

Angered by his defiance and confrontational approach, the protesters surrounded the vehicle and assaulted its occupants. Their vehicle was completely damaged. Three of his friends were admitted to a private hospital in Bargarh and later shifted outside the district, while the MLA’s son was moved to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar, where he is currently undergoing treatment. A few police personnel were also injured while attempting to control the situation and rescue those involved.

Police have registered a suo motu case in connection with the incident; however, the name of the MLA’s son was not included in the complaint, raising questions.