Bhubaneswar, 22 October (H.S.) : The controversy surrounding the murder of senior advocate Pitabas Panda in Ganjam district continues to escalate. Odisha’s Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari on Wednesday leveled serious allegations against the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), accusing the party of encouraging criminals under the pretext of providing protection to its leaders.

Minister Pujari stated that following the arrest of former MLA and Ganjam BJD president Bikram Panda, the party has been portraying him as innocent and engaging in political rhetoric. He claimed that such behavior is not only unconstitutional but also promotes a dangerous nexus between crime and politics in Odisha.

He further alleged that the murder plot was orchestrated by armed criminals brought in from Bihar, with the alleged involvement of political leaders, former legislators, and mayors. Pujari criticized senior BJD leaders for making statements in favor of the accused, thereby undermining the state’s judicial process and the rule of law.

The minister urged BJD to share any concrete evidence with the police and the courts. He warned that continued political statements defending the accused could pose a serious threat to law and order in the state.

Pujari emphasized that the BJD must prioritize the state’s interests and law enforcement over political gains. He stated that defending criminals and obstructing the arrest of the real perpetrators is unjust and detrimental to Odisha’s governance.

This statement comes in the wake of a press conference held by BJD leaders defending Bikram Panda, following his arrest in connection with the Pitabas Panda murder case. Minister Pujari’s comments represent a sharp rebuttal to the party’s defense of its leader.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda