Titilagarh: A blank firing by Titilagarh MLA Nabin Kumar Jain during a procession on auspicious occasion of Ram Navami on Friday sparked controversy in Balangir district. 

According to reports, a grand spiritual procession was taken out from Radha Krishna Temple in Titilagarh on the occasion of Ram Navami, with hundreds of devotees participating. Children dressed as Lord Ram, Lakshman, Sita, and Hanuman were part of the celebrations, while the town echoed with devotional chants and music.  

MLA allegedly fires shots in public

Amid the festivities, Titilagarh MLA Nabin Kumar Jain joined the procession and was seen allegedly firing shots in the air using a pistol at Shastri Chowk. Similar scenes were reported again near Old Bank Chowk, raising eyebrows among attendees.

Video goes viral, raises safety concerns

Videos of the incident, showing the BJP MLA firing in the air and later tucking the weapon into his waist in a dramatic manner, have gone viral on social media. The visuals also show his aide holding up his hand during the firing.

Questions over police presence

The incident has triggered questions over the role of the police present at the place, as no immediate action was taken to prevent the firing despite it occurring in a crowded public event.

MLA claims use of toy gun

When contacted, the MLA denied wrongdoing, stating that the weapon used was a fake gun and the act was meant to energise the crowd during the festive procession.

Debate over public conduct intensifies

The incident has sparked debate over public safety and responsible conduct by elected representatives during large gatherings, especially in events attended by families and children.