Shoes at Patnaik: Accused claims he was instigated

Bargarh (Odisha) [India], Feb. 21 (ANI): Kartik Meher, the accused arrested for throwing shoes at Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday averred that he was instigated to react.

Meher, however, refused to reveal the name of the instigator.

"Three people instigated me. They may be from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the Congress or the Aam Admi Party (AAP). Why should I reveal their identities?" the accused said.

"I don't support any political party. Why do the leaders come here to address the public? The public will choose easily and vote on their own," he added.

Earlier on Tuesday, shoes were thrown towards Patnaik while he was addressing a gathering in Bargarh.

Patnaik's personal security officers, however, parried the blow and he was taken to safety.

Later, the culprit was thrashed by the crowd. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI