Puri: A dramatic incident unfolded in Puri district on Wednesday when an RTI activist allegedly attempted suicide outside the Gop block office after failing to obtain information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, triggering concern in the locality.

The individual, identified as Firoze Parida of Gadakaramala village under Biratunga panchayat, was stopped by police while attempting to take the extreme step. The situation was quickly brought under control by personnel present at the spot.

According to Parida, he had been raising allegations of irregularities and misappropriation of government funds in the construction of the Biratunga Kalyan Mandap and park electrification projects. He claimed despite repeatedly filing RTI applications with the Gop Block Development Officer (BDO), he did not receive complete or satisfactory information.

Frustrated over the lack of response, Parida had earlier submitted a written notice stating he would attempt suicide in front of the block office on June 10, if his concerns were not addressed.

In view of the warning, police and fire services personnel were deployed outside the block office as a precautionary measure. As Parida attempted to carry out his threat, the police intervened swiftly and prevented any harm.

Later, Gop BDO Suryaprakash Das reached the spot and held discussions with Parida. He assured the allegations would be thoroughly investigated and that necessary action would be taken within 10 days.

However, the BDO left the scene without making any official statement to the media.