Bhubaneswar, 02 May (H.S.): Political exchanges have intensified in Odisha after Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik wrote to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over an alleged inhuman incident at a rural bank branch in the state.

Responding to the development, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan raised questions over the move and referred to the widely discussed ‘Dana Majhi’ case. He asked what action had been taken during that period and remarked that responsibilities during the tenure of the then Chief Minister cannot be ignored.

Harichandan noted that the Dana Majhi incident had drawn serious criticism regarding the state government’s handling, terming it a significant administrative lapse. He further questioned whether similar efforts, such as writing to central authorities, were made at that time.

Taking a swipe at the opposition, the minister remarked that leaders who resort to writing letters often limit themselves to statements and criticism on social media rather than taking concrete action.

Earlier on Saturday, Patnaik had urged the Centre to ensure accountability in the recent bank incident and called for reforms to make banking services more humane and citizen-centric.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda