What sparked the war of words between BJD and BJP after former MLA's arrest in a murder case?
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Synopsis
The arrest of BJD leader Bikram Kumar Panda in the murder of BJP's Pitabasa Panda has unleashed a fierce debate between the two political factions, with serious allegations and claims of political biases surfacing. What does this mean for the political landscape in Odisha?
Key Takeaways
- BJD leader Bikram Panda arrested in murder case.
- Claims of political motives behind the arrest.
- High crime rates reported in Ganjam district.
- BJP leaders counter allegations, highlighting criminal ties.
- 12 arrests made in connection with the murder of Pitabasa Panda.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 22 (NationPress) The detention of the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) figure, Bikram Kumar Panda, along with his associates concerning the murder of BJP leader Pitabasa Panda, has ignited a fierce war of words between the organizations.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, senior BJD officials claimed that the arrest of former MLA and current BJD president for Ganjam district, Bikram Panda, is motivated purely by political agendas.
Pointing fingers at Gopalpur MLA and State Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, BJD leaders suggested that the ex-MLA was intentionally implicated in order to protect both the state government and the minister.
They argued that the Berhampur police have failed to provide any substantial evidence linking Bikram Panda to the murder.
At the press conference, senior BJD member Pramila Mallik asserted that under the past 16 months of BJP governance, the law and order situation in the state has significantly worsened, with Ganjam district experiencing the highest rates of crime.
Mallik reported that in Ganjam alone, there were 152 reported rape cases and 128 murder cases during this period. She also claimed that illegal sand mining has surged in Ganjam, resulting in numerous violent incidents.
Additionally, Mallik stated that allegations have repeatedly surfaced regarding Bibhuti Bhushan Jena's involvement in the illegal sand trade.
Following the murder of BJP leader Pitabasa Panda, preliminary discussions suggested that illegal sand mining could be a motive, with Minister Jena's name surfacing in relation to the case.
On the other hand, State Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari labeled the BJD's allegations as regrettable.
He highlighted that the Berhampur Superintendent of Police had provided a clear explanation of the conspiracy surrounding the murder, including details about attempts to protect those involved in the assassination of the BJP leader.
“If the BJD continues to deny the involvement of its leaders in this case, then they are simply denying reality. By attempting to shield their leaders, the BJD is also fostering criminal behavior,” Pujari asserted.
Importantly, the Berhampur police announced on Wednesday that they had apprehended 12 individuals, including Bikram Panda and his close associates, in connection with the murder of BJP leader Pitabasa Panda, who was shot near his home in Berhampur on October 6.
Point of View
It's crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective on the escalating tensions between BJD and BJP. The war of words following the arrest of Bikram Panda highlights significant issues within the political realm of Odisha. While both parties present their claims, our priority remains to inform the public about the unfolding events, focusing on facts rather than political biases.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the conflict between BJD and BJP?
The conflict was ignited by the arrest of BJD leader Bikram Kumar Panda in connection with the murder of BJP leader Pitabasa Panda.
What are the allegations made by BJD leaders?
BJD leaders allege that Panda's arrest is politically motivated and that the police lack substantial evidence against him.
How has crime been reported in Ganjam district?
Under BJP rule, Ganjam has reported high incidences of crime, including 152 rape cases and 128 murder cases over the last 16 months.
What do BJP leaders say about BJD's claims?
BJP leaders have dismissed BJD's claims as a denial of the truth and have accused them of trying to protect criminal activities.
How many individuals were arrested in connection with the murder?
The Berhampur police reported the arrest of 12 individuals, including Bikram Panda and his associates, related to the murder case.
