Is BJP Misusing State Machinery Against BJD Leaders?
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Synopsis
Tensions escalate in Odisha as BJD accuses BJP of misusing state resources to intimidate its leaders ahead of critical by-elections. Senior BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty condemns alleged unethical tactics, citing recent raids and police misconduct. Will the BJD prevail in the upcoming Nuapada Assembly by-elections amidst these controversies?
Key Takeaways
- BJD accuses BJP of misusing state machinery.
- Raid on Pritiranjan Gharai's residence raises concerns.
- Allegations of police misconduct in Nuapada.
- BJD seeks fair elections amidst tension.
- Importance of Nuapada by-election for Odisha's political landscape.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 31 (NationPress) In light of the recent raid on the rented residence of senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Pritiranjan Gharai at Khariar Road on Friday, the opposition party has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of exploiting state resources in Odisha to target its leaders and supporters ahead of the by-election for the Nuapada Assembly constituency.
During a press briefing in Bhubaneswar on Friday, senior BJD leader and spokesperson Lenin Mohanty vehemently criticized the alleged misuse of administrative resources in Nuapada, claiming it was orchestrated by the ruling party.
Mohanty emphasized that the Nuapada by-election serves as a crucial indicator of the sentiments of the people of Odisha.
He further accused the BJP, fearing a loss, of resorting to underhanded tactics and enlisting leaders from Chhattisgarh to mislead voters.
According to Mohanty, following the visit by the Director General of Police, Odisha, local police officials received informal directives to support the BJP.
He claimed that the Nuapada district collector and SP began behaving in a biased manner, intimidating BJD leaders and workers while trying to sway voters.
The BJD spokesperson referenced the recent raid on Pritiranjan Gharai's rented home as evidence of the BJP's misuse of state resources. He labeled the raid as unlawful and politically motivated.
“This raid was executed without a search warrant or legal justification, yielding no incriminating evidence. The team withdrew after a peaceful protest from residents and BJD supporters. Dr. Mohanty described this as a politically driven act aimed at discrediting and demoralizing BJD members,” Mohanty asserted.
He also alleged that approximately 500 individuals allegedly brought in from Chhattisgarh by the BJP have posed as police personnel to intimidate voters and BJD supporters in the constituency, as per reports.
Mohanty questioned how the Odisha government, led by the BJP Chief Minister who also oversees the home portfolio, can deploy external forces to intimidate citizens while failing to curb serious crimes like rapes and murders in the state.
He expressed confidence that BJD will triumph in the bypolls as the people of Nuapada recognize the contributions made by former Chief Minister and BJD President Naveen Patnaik in enhancing the region’s schools, healthcare, and infrastructure.
The party has also lodged a complaint with the district collector and SP of Nuapada to the Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha.
Point of View
We must recognize the significance of this political conflict in Odisha. The allegations of misuse of state machinery by the BJP against the BJD raises serious concerns about the integrity of electoral processes. It is essential that all political parties adhere to democratic principles, ensuring fair competition and transparency during elections. This situation calls for scrutiny and accountability from all involved.
NationPress
01/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the BJD's accusations against the BJP?
The BJD's accusations stem from a raid on the rented residence of senior leader Pritiranjan Gharai, which they claim was a misuse of state machinery by the BJP.
How does BJD describe the raid on Gharai's residence?
BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty described the raid as unlawful, politically motivated, and executed without a search warrant.
What are the BJD's main allegations against the BJP?
The BJD alleges that the BJP is using unethical tactics, including bringing in external leaders to mislead voters and manipulating local law enforcement.
What is the significance of the Nuapada by-election?
The Nuapada by-election is seen as a crucial indicator of public sentiment in Odisha, reflecting the people's views on the governance of the ruling party.
What actions has the BJD taken in response to this situation?
The BJD has lodged complaints with the district collector and SP of Nuapada, aiming to address the alleged misconduct to the Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha.
