The BJP has severely criticised the State Government for growing criminal activities in Ganjam district and sought an explanation from it on the alleged nexus between ruling BJD leaders and criminals.
“Following the arrest of former Congress MlA Ramesh Jena in Ganjam district, the home turf of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the statements made by Aska MP ladu Kishore Swain, Excise Minister Damodar Rout and BJD spokesperson Samir Dash have raised questions over efficiency and transparency of police and administration,” said BJP spokesperson Sajjan Sharma here on Wednesday.
He alleged that there is a nexus between the ruling BJD and criminals, and Dhalsamant brothers, ladu Swain and Ramesh Jena were actively involved in criminal activities for the past 16 years. Sharma said even as Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is looking after the Home portfolio, criminals have strengthened their empire. The State Government’s dual policy on dealing with anti-social elements has helped in growing of criminal activities.
“The criminals’ involvement in organising BJD’s programmes makes it clear that the ruling party has been using criminals for its benefit,” he alleged.
“If the law is equal for all, then BJP workers would not have been arrested in Tirtol and MlA Pramod Mallick would not have been set free even after serious allegations were levelled against him,” said Sharma said.
He further alleged that crores of rupees were looted in the name of chit fund firms that were supporting the ruling party.
“Mining mafia have benefited the most during BJD rule”, alleged the senior party leader seeking explanation from Chief Minister on how criminals have emerged powerful by fixing tenders in various Government departments.