Bhubaneswar, 14 March (H.S.) : Pratap Chandra Sarangi on Saturday launched a sharp attack on Naveen Patnaik amid the ongoing political row over alleged horse-trading in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha.

The BJP MP claimed that in the past the former Chief Minister and BJD president had attempted to lure him through horse-trading. Sarangi alleged that efforts were made to secure his support by sending three MLAs to approach him with an offer, but he refused the proposal.

Sarangi further claimed that while such attempts might still be desired, they are no longer being carried out due to the lack of political power.

“No one could be more efficient than Naveen Patnaik in horse-trading. Naveen Babu has indulged in horse-trading many times in the past. He had even tried to lure me through horse-trading by sending his MLAs and ministers. I have already spoken about this on television, and the whole of Odisha is aware of it,” Sarangi said.

He added that it does not suit Patnaik to raise allegations of horse-trading now and questioned why the BJP would engage in such practices. According to Sarangi, Patnaik’s remarks reflect frustration after losing power.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda