Bhawanipatna: In yet another instance of deteriorating law and order situation in Odisha, a contractor was shot dead by two miscreants in a local market at Pahadpadar village under Lanjigarh block in Kalahandi district today.

The deceased was identified as Rajendra Sahoo, a resident of Pahadpadar village.

The miscreants fled from the spot after gunning down the youth.

The incident took place in broad daylight at the village market while Rajendra was buying vegetables.

According to reports, two unknown miscreants suddenly opened fire at Rajendra in the market and ran away.

On receiving information, police reached the spot and recovered the body. A probe has been initiated into the incident.

"It is suspected that Maoists have gunned down the youth. We are investigating into the matter," B Gangadhar, Kalahandi SP said.

A villager claimed the involvement of Red rebels as Maoist posters were found near the weekly market claiming their role.

Notably, the deceased was in the hitlist of the Maoists and they had also torched his vehicle in the past.