Koraput: Tension surfaced during the inauguration of ‘Parab’ festival in Odisha’s Koraput following heated exchange of words between Congress leader and Jeypore MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati and Nabarangpur MP Balabhadra Majhi.
The two leaders engaged in a fierce war of words in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the event on Saturday. The situation turned normal after the Chief Minister intervened and pacified the two leaders.
Altercation erupted between the two leaders when different dignitaries were addressing the gathering. Speaking at the event, the Congress legislator put forward several demands for Koraput district. While delivering his speech, Majhi countered Bahinipati over tardy progress in restoration work of Jagannath Sagar in Jeypore.
Angry over the BJP MP’s remarks, a visibly agitated Bahinipati raised questions over Majhi’s knowledge about facts related to Koraput As tension began escalating, the Chief Minister stepped in to defuse the situation. Majhi assured the gathering that the government will make all efforts for the speedy restoration of Jagannath Lake.
After the inaugural ceremony, Bahinipati stated that Balabhadra Majhi’s statements appeared to have stemmed from misinformation. He also reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the all-round development needs of Koraput.
“It seems he (MP Majhi) was given wrong information. He has understood now and admitted that the Jagannath Sagar requires immediate renovation. I also personally requested the Chief Minister to sanction around Rs 40-50 crore for the renovation work,” Bahinipati said.
The Chief Minister also stated that his government is committed to the development of Koraput and assured necessary funds for the renovation work.
Describing Jagannath Sagar as one of the largest lakes of the state, he said it requires renovation. A DPR will be prepared and then necessary funds will be sanctioned for speedy restoration and renovation of the lake, Majhi added.
