Pradeep Panigrahy Asks People Close To Odisha CM To Refrain From ‘Dirty Politics’

Berhampur: Mounting a scathing attack on the ruling BJD in Odisha, former party leader and Gopalpur MLA Pradeep Panigrahy on Saturday asked people close to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to refrain from indulging in ‘dirty politics’ and focus on development and welfare of the people.

During a visit to his constituency in Ganjam district, the three-time MLA told reporters that he would tour the area and work for the development of the people.

The people, who are in power and close to the Chief Minister, should refrain from indulging in dirty politics and work for the development of the people, he said, adding that people will love them if they sincerely work for their welfare.

Lashing out at the ruling BJD, the former minister alleged that during his absence his area was neglected. No development work has been done in the area during the period, he claimed.

Panigraby had been expelled by Ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik from the regional party on charge of “anti-people” activities.

The party action against Panigrahy came after the anti-corruption vigilance wing established his alleged association with suspended Indian Forest Service Officer (IFS) Abhay Kant Pathak and his son Akash Kumar Pathak.

The father-son duo had been arrested on charges of amassing huge properties in a disproportionate asset case. Panigrahy had allegedly helped Pathak’s son Akash in a job fraud. Pathak’s son has also been accused of cheating youths from Ganjam district by luring them with jobs in a reputed company.

Following his arrest, Panigrahy was in judicial custody at Jharpada Special Jail in Bhubaneswar. The Orissa High Court granted him bail in connection with the job fraud case on June 11, 2021.

In June this year, he indicated his return to active politics as he met his supporters at various places in his Assembly constituency. He had also asserted that he was still in the regional party. “My name is at serial number 26 in the BJD list of Odisha Legislative Assembly,” Panigrahy had then told the media.