The BJD’s decision to field incumbent MlA Sarada Nayak again in the Rourkela unreserved seat for the upcoming elections has been termed by many as party supremo and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s act of injustice to the people of the constituency.
“The Chief Minister removed Nayak from his Council of Ministers after May 29, 2012 episode, terming his behaviour as more than shadow of corruption. Now, deciding to give a ticket to a ‘tainted’ Nayak, Patnaik has eaten his own words,” this is what BJD supporters are discussing.
While Nayak is facing several allegations, a chunk of BJD leaders demonstrated in Bhubaneswar recently urging party president not to give him a ticket. Most of the people were confident that Nayak would not get a ticket. But the first phase list announced on Wednesday, which showed Nayak’s name, has shocked them.
The announcement has not only raised a question about credibility of the Chief Minister but might work as a blessing in disguise for the main rival Dilip Ray from BJP, said a party worker.
Before 2004 general elections, Nayak was a mere Congress worker. As the party did not give a ticket, he joined BJD and fought the elections. He won the election in BJD wave. Again in 2009, he got the ticket as he was very close to Pyari Mohan Mohapatra.
During this long ten years, his resume has found several black dots as he was alleged by senior party cadres. A large number of industries have been closed during his stint. As far as Rourkela city and it’s people are concerned there is no sign of development, alleged another party worker.
“This is really unfortunate to hear about BJD candidate from Rourkela. During the last ten years, he has done nothing for people like me. His selection is a gaffe of BJD high command. BJD has lost it’s credibility by selecting him for Rourkela seat,” said a vegetable vendor.