Odisha Elections 2024: BJD Alleges Poll Code Violation By BJP MP, Seeks Action

Bhubaneswar: The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday approached Odisha’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) alleging violation of model code of conduct by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Pratap Sarangi.

A delegation of BJD led by party MP Sasmit Patra visited the office of the CEO and submitted a petition accusing the MP from Balasore of violating the poll code.

Though the model of code of conduct is already in force for the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in the state, Sarangi with the help of some contractors installed solar lights in different places of Nachinda and Aruhuabrutti 1 gram panchayats under Bhograi block in Balasore district on March 31 night, BJD claimed in its petition.

Accusing Sarangi of having done this to woo the voters of these areas, BJD demanded strict action against the Parliamentarian. The regional party further accused Sarangi of threatening villagers for disclosing about the installation of solar lights.

Despite opposition by local villagers, some contractors hired by Sarangi installed solar lights in these areas, the BJD leaders claimed and demanded a thorough probe into the episode.