Is BJP Violating MCC and Intimidating Voters in Odisha's Nuapada?
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Synopsis
In a significant political move, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has called for the Chief Electoral Officer's urgent intervention in Odisha, alleging serious violations by the BJP during the voting process in Nuapada. Accusations include voter intimidation and the distribution of free food to influence votes. What does this mean for the integrity of the elections?
Key Takeaways
- BJD has accused BJP of MCC violations during voting.
- Allegations include voter intimidation and food distribution.
- Abani Joshi has submitted a memorandum for intervention.
- Voting is taking place under tight security at 358 booths.
- As of 11:00 AM, voter turnout is 32.51%.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 11 (NationPress) The principal opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has urgently appealed to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, claiming that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has breached the Model Code of Conduct even during the voting process. The BJD has accused BJP affiliates of infiltrating polling booths in Nuapada and applying undue pressure on voters to support their candidate, Jai Dholakia.
Moreover, it has been reported that BJP members were distributing food packets near various polling stations as a means to sway voter decisions.
The District President of BJD in Nuapada, Abani Joshi, has filed a memorandum with the District Election Officer and the Collector of Nuapada, urging immediate intervention.
“I wish to highlight a serious and organized infringement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and electoral regulations by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the polling day in the Nuapada Assembly Constituency. BJP workers have established temporary tiffin distribution points and are providing free tiffin to voters standing in line to vote,” Joshi stated in his memorandum to the DEO.
Joshi has called for swift and stringent action from the DEO regarding this pressing issue.
During a press briefing, BJD spokesperson and media coordinator Lenin Mohanty alleged that BJP leaders and workers were blatantly ignoring all rules and prohibitions during the voting.
He further mentioned that they were forcibly remaining inside polling stations, intimidating voters, and coercing them to vote for Jai Dholakia. Reports of such incidents have emerged from booth numbers 3, 4, 5, 13, 14, and 15 in the Khariar Road NAC of the Nuapada Assembly constituency.
Mohanty accused the government officials present of failing to take action despite witnessing these violations, suggesting they were acting in favor of the BJP candidate.
It is significant to note that voting for the Nuapada Assembly constituency is currently taking place across 358 polling booths, including 47 classified as sensitive and eight as highly sensitive, under stringent security protocols.
As per the Election Commission of India, the voter turnout in the Nuapada Assembly has reached approximately 32.51 percent by 11:00 AM. About 2.53 lakh voters in the Nuapada Assembly constituency are expected to participate in deciding the fate of 14 candidates vying for election.
Point of View
It is vital to report on electoral integrity with utmost responsibility. The allegations made by the BJD against the BJP highlight the need for a transparent electoral process. Upholding the principles of democracy is essential, and any violations must be thoroughly investigated to maintain public trust in the electoral system.
NationPress
11/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations has the BJD made against the BJP?
The BJD alleges that the BJP violated the Model Code of Conduct by intimidating voters and distributing food at polling booths in Nuapada.
Who is the District President of BJD in Nuapada?
The District President of BJD in Nuapada is Abani Joshi.
What is the voter turnout in Nuapada as of 11:00 AM?
The voter turnout in Nuapada Assembly has reached approximately 32.51 percent by 11:00 AM.
What actions has the BJD demanded from the District Election Officer?
The BJD has demanded immediate and strict action against the BJP for violating electoral laws.
How many polling booths are there in the Nuapada Assembly constituency?
There are 358 polling booths in the Nuapada Assembly constituency.
