Odisha Polls: BJD Engaging ASHA & Anganwadi Workers In Campaign, BJP Complains To CEO

Bhubaneswar: In another complaint to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha against the BJD, the opposition BJP on Tuesday alleged that the ruling party was engaging the ASHA and Anganwadi workers in its election campaign.

A delegation of the BJP, led by its state vice-president Golak Mohapatra, submitted their complaint to the CEO along with the evidence to substantiate their allegation.

Speaking to media later, Mohapatra said they had photographs and videos to prove that the Anganwadi and ASHA workers were campaigning for the BJD candidates in Berhampur. Besides, a block-level federation (BLF) member has been found holding the BJD’s party symbol and canvassing for the party in Chandbali, he said.

Mohapatra further said the BJD government had sanctioned more than Rs 500 crore of the Tribal Welfare Development department to an NGO after declaration of the elections in the state by the Election Commission of India.

“We apprehend that the fund will be used to meet election expenses of the BJD. Besides, sanction of funds from government exchequer during election violates poll code of conduct. We have submitted all the evidences to the CEO and sought urgent action against the ruling party,” he said.

On the other hand, the BJD refuted the allegations. Its senior leader Prafulla Samal said the BJD has never asked Anganwadi and ASHA and BLF members to campaign. They might be doing it on their own due to development works of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, he added.

It may be noted that the BJP had submitted a complaint, addressed to the ECI, to the CEO on Monday alleging that senior IPS officer DS Kuttey was working in favour of the BJD in its campaign for the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in violation of the code of conduct.

Also Read: Odisha Elections 2024: BJP Moves EC Accusing IPS Officer Of Favouring BJD In Campaigning