BJD leader beaten up by partymen

Gandhi, who is also the editor of 'Utkal Prasang' - a monthly magazine published by the state government, sustained injuries to his face and other parts of his body and his vehicle was damaged.

The leader was first rushed to Area hospital on Jajpur Road and later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, police said.

According to the FIR filed by him with the Jajpur Road police, Gandhi was dragged out of his car and beaten up by four motorcycle-borne youths, suspected to be supporters of Korei MLA Pritiranjan Ghadai.

The assailants fled when some of Gandhi's followers, who had congregated at a temple nearby, rushed to the spot after hearing his cries for help.