Opposition Members Walk Out to Protest Against Inaction Regarding Odisha Governor Das's Son
The BJD leader stated that immediate action was taken against ministers, MLAs, MPs, and senior government officials whenever they violated the law during his tenure.
Arpit Pattnaik
BHUBANESWAR: The budget session of the Assembly began on a stormy note on Monday as the Opposition BJD and Congress boycotted the address of Governor Raghubar Das in the House. This was due to the alleged assault of an assistant section officer in the Raj Bhavan by the governor's son.
Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik led the walkout by the BJD and Congress members as soon as the Governor started his address to the House. Congress MLAs also raised the issue inside the House before joining the walkout.
Naveen expressed disappointment and surprise at the government's inaction regarding the Governor's son, who allegedly assaulted a government officer. He also criticized the breakdown of law and order in the state.
The BJD supremo emphasized that his government took immediate action against ministers, MLAs, MPs, and senior government officers whenever they broke the law. He urged the state government to take appropriate legal action.
The alleged assault on Baikuntha Pradhan, an ASO, by the Governor’s son took place on the Raj Bhavan premises at Puri during Rath Yatra on July 7. Pradhan was posted to supervise preparations for President Droupadi Murmu’s visit.
The law minister described the opposition's walkout as unfortunate and assured that the Chief Minister and the state government are taking the allegation seriously. The Governor’s office has directed the Puri collector to submit a report on the incident within the next 15 days, and strong action will be taken against the guilty based on the report. The BJP government is committed to allowing the law to take its course.
