What Security Measures Are Being Taken for Naveen Patnaik's Campaign?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- BJD requests enhanced security for Naveen Patnaik's campaign.
- Concerns about disruptions from BJP supporters have been voiced.
- A formal application was submitted to the Odisha CEO.
- Traffic disruptions caused by BJP's campaign efforts reported.
- Maintaining law and order is critical for a fair election process.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 6 (NationPress) The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has formally requested the Odisha Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) R.S. Gopalan to implement comprehensive and sufficient security measures for the Leader of Opposition (LoP) and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik during his upcoming election campaign events on Friday. The party expressed concerns about potential disruptions from certain BJP leaders and supporters.
A BJD delegation, which included Rajya Sabha MP Sulata Deo and prominent leader Lenin Mohanty, submitted a formal application to the Odisha CEO regarding this issue.
According to the BJD's application, they are concerned that some BJP leaders and their supporters might try to create disturbances, such as stone pelting or other violent acts, during Patnaik's visit. They urged that appropriate security measures be established to guarantee his safety and the uninterrupted execution of the campaign activities.
Party sources indicated that BJD President Naveen Patnaik is set to engage in two roadshows in Nuapada and the Khariar Notified Area Councils, as well as a public gathering in Parkod, Nuapada district, on Friday.
Moreover, the BJD delegation lodged a complaint with the Odisha CEO regarding the alleged traffic obstruction and unlawful road blockade for a BJP campaign led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in the Nuapada Assembly constituency on Thursday, supporting the ruling party's candidate Jay Dholakia.
The complaint highlighted serious instances of public disruption and violations of election regulations by the BJP and its supporters in the Nuapada Assembly constituency, who obstructed a main road in Komna block by setting up a stage for an election event featuring CM Majhi, candidate Dholakia, and other senior BJP officials.
This obstruction has reportedly caused significant traffic congestion, affecting the daily commute of local residents, students, employees, and small business owners, while also hindering the transportation of goods.
The delegation respectfully urged immediate intervention from your office to instruct local authorities and police to clear the blockage, maintain free access on public roads, and initiate appropriate actions against violators under the Motor Vehicles Act and Model Code of Conduct, ensuring strict compliance with lawful and impartial behavior during the election campaign.