Bhubaneswar: Leader of Opposition (LoP) Naveen Patnaik on Saturday lashed out at the Odisha government alleging that law and order situation in the state has deteriorated amid a series of communal incidents.
Speaking during the discussion on the Home Department’s demand in the Assembly, Naveen referred to several recent incidents and said these have affected communal harmony and effective governance.
The LoP said several communal incidents took place in Balasore and other parts of the state, including a recent murder in Khurda district, which needed urgent attention.
He said Odisha has historically been known for its communal peace, and preserving this harmony should be a top priority for the state government.
Attacking the government over handling of the recent Ratha Yatra, he referred to the incident in which the idol of Lord Balabhadra slipped during Adapa Mandap Bije ritual, shocking millions of devotees.
Naveen also raised the issue relating to the recent liquor tragedy in Ganjam district’s Chikiti area, expressing concern over illicit liquor trade in the state. He urged the government to take decisive action on these matters.
The BJD president further questioned the government’s response to an incident involving the Governor’s son, who allegedly attacked and humiliated a government official on duty during the Ratha Yatra.
“Is the law different for the sons of governors, ministers, MPs, MLAs, or senior officers? Are they immune from prosecution?” the LoP sought to know, and warned that if certain individuals are indeed above the law, the people of Odisha must be informed.
Naveen asserted that such incidents never took place under his leadership as no one was above the law and that such serious matters were not overlooked.
He expressed hope that the current Chief Minister, who also holds the Home portfolio, would address these issues promptly, particularly the recent rape and murder of a minor.
Hitting back at the LoP over his remarks, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi asserted that law and order situation in the state is normal, and he has reviewed the crime scenario 2-3 times during the last 81 days since he took charge.
Taking a dig at Naveen for not being present in the House to listen to the response to the allegations levelled by him, Majhi said it seems the LoP has more important work than the Assembly proceedings.
He also accused Naveen of having failed to maintain law and order during his tenure as CM and alleged that criminals were not afraid of enforcement agencies when BJD was in power.
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