Bhubaneswar, Nov 14 (NationPress) As the ruling BJP appears poised for victory in the Nuapada bypoll in Odisha, opposition parties, including the Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD), have raised allegations of financial improprieties and government resources being exploited to sway voters in favor of the BJP.

In a media briefing, senior BJD figure Debi Prasad Mishra accused the BJP of leveraging government resources, while also criticizing the Election Commission of India for its inaction regarding electoral violations, especially during the critical 48-hour silence period. He suggested that the overwhelming influence of the ‘triple-engine government’ comprising Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and the central government played a crucial role in the success of BJP candidate Jay Dholakia in the Nuapada bypoll.

Mishra expressed concern over the anomalous increase in voter turnout on November 11, hinting at potential vote manipulation. He pointed out that a voter turnout exceeding 91% in around 41 booths and over 83% in about 50 booths warranted a comprehensive investigation into possible electoral fraud.

Notably, BJD vice president Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak previously claimed that, according to electoral officials, the voter turnout was only 75% until 5 p.m. on polling day, yet subsequent reports indicated it had spiked to 83.5%. While a high voter turnout is typically regarded as a positive development for democracy, Nayak raised serious concerns about the addition of over 8% votes post the official closing time.

Meanwhile, Congress candidate and tribal leader Ghasiram Majhi voiced his frustrations, alleging that the extensive distribution of money led to his electoral defeat. He lamented, 'Personality holds no sway; money is the true determinant in elections. I have put in considerable effort, but being tribal or an OBC member doesn't matter in the face of financial power. The voters in Nuapada were effectively purchased.'

Majhi also expressed disappointment over the lack of support from the central Congress leadership, noting that the party's top figures neither campaigned for him nor provided any financial backing.