Bhubaneswar, 28 August (H.S.)Union Minister and senior BJP leader Jual Oram has alleged that a section of leaders who recently joined the party from other political outfits are attempting to weaken his position and tarnish his reputation in Odisha’s Rourkela.

Speaking amid ongoing political developments in the city, Oram alleged that money was being spent to run a misinformation campaign against him and undermine his standing within the party. He claimed that some newly joined leaders were seeking to create political opportunities for themselves, including a possible claim to a position in the Union Cabinet.

“I have built this party with my blood and flesh, and I know the party very well,” Oram said, asserting that the BJP had given him a significant and meaningful position.

Reacting strongly to the alleged campaign against him, Oram said he would firmly defend his political reputation and announced that he had decided to contest elections again, despite having earlier indicated that he would not enter the electoral fray in the future.

“I will contest the election again and see who is working against me,” he said, challenging those he believes are attempting to undermine him.

Oram also issued a strong warning to anyone attempting to defame or humiliate him, particularly in his capacity as a tribal leader, saying he would respond decisively to such attempts.

The Union Minister criticised leaders who had joined the BJP from other parties, alleging that they were attempting to destabilise him through negative propaganda and the use of money.

Oram said he had already apprised the party’s organisational secretary, Manas Mohanty, of the developments. He added that, if necessary, he would raise the matter with the BJP’s central leadership.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda