Theft at Senior Congress Leader's Home in Odisha

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Theft at Senior Congress Leader's Home in Odisha

Synopsis

A thief stole valuables and cash exceeding Rs 50 lakhs from the residence of former Congress leader Niranjan Patnaik in Bhubaneswar. This incident has prompted police investigations and criticism from the opposition regarding the state’s deteriorating law and order situation.

Key Takeaways

  • Unidentified thief steals from a senior politician's home.
  • Valuables worth over Rs 50 lakhs were taken.
  • Police have launched an investigation into the theft.
  • The incident raises concerns about safety in Bhubaneswar.
  • Opposition parties criticize government response to crime.

Bhubaneswar, Jan 26 (NationPress) A thief has reportedly stolen valuables and cash amounting to over Rs 50 lakhs from the residence of former Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) leader Niranjan Patnaik in Bhubaneswar during the night between January 25 and 26.

The police have commenced an investigation following a complaint filed by Patnaik’s son, Devajyoti.

“A burglary occurred at the home of ex-OPCC president and former minister Niranjan Patnaik in the Nayapalli police station jurisdiction last night. No one was at home during the incident. Our police team arrived promptly to commence an investigation. We have also examined the scene and are conducting our inquiries thoroughly. I believe we have uncovered some significant clues, and we aim to resolve the case swiftly,” stated Bhubaneswar DCP Pinak Mishra.

In the meantime, Patnaik expressed that the crime was executed by a professional thief who must have meticulously planned the operation.

According to the complaint, the thief made off with jewelry worth Rs 50 lakhs and cash totaling Rs 2.50 lakhs from the third floor of the premises.

The opposition party, Biju Janata Dal, criticized the ruling BJP on Sunday, highlighting the unsettling law and order conditions in the state.

During a press conference at the BJD party headquarters, senior leader and MP Sulata Deo remarked that while the state was commemorating the 76th Republic Day, an incident of theft occurred at the home of a former minister and senior Congress leader Patnaik, situated in a high-profile neighborhood of the state capital where several VVIPs reside.

“It is profoundly disgraceful that, amidst extensive security measures for the Republic Day festivities, such a robbery took place in the residence of a senior political figure. This incident reflects the perilous condition of public safety. Who can assure the security of ordinary citizens? The current state of law and order is in disarray,” asserted Deo.