Kandhmal:
Manoj Pradhan, the controversial BJP MLA from Kandhmal in Orissa, was arrested on Thursday after a fast-track court hearing cases relating to anti-Christian violence in 2008, held him guilty of playing a major role in the murder of a Dalit Christian, Vikram Nayak.
Vikram Nayak of Tiangia village near Raikia, was murdered on August 25, 2008.
Manoj Pradhan faces six years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 15,500.
In June this year, Pradhan was convicted by the fast-track court and was sentenced to seven years in jail for his role in a mob attack that led to the death of another Dalit Christian. However, eight days later, he was granted bail by the Orissa High Court.
Pradhan, who represents the communally sensitive constituency of G. Udaygiri, has so far been acquitted in seven of 14 riot-related cases filed against him. Of these, three cases relate to murder and he has been convicted by the fast-track courts in two already.
Pradhan's counsel said he would now move the High Court for bail.