The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is investigating a ₹231 crore bank loan fraud allegedly involving the deceased brother of Odisha BJD MLA Pramila Malik. Searches were conducted at locations linked to Khirod Malik in Sambalpur. The probe involves his NGO, BISWA, and focuses on alleged misuse of funds obtained through questionable loans from various banks.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) success in the upcoming Odisha Assembly elections, stating that the people of the state have a strong emotional bond with the party. Modi highlighted the disconnect between the BJD government and the citizens of Odisha, emphasizing the need for a change in leadership. Despite language barriers, Modi believes that the BJP has resonated with the people of Odisha, who yearn for a closer connection with their leaders.
In the upcoming Loksabha elections for the Berhampur seat, Odisha, the political landscape has witnessed a significant shift. Pradeep Panigrahy, the BJP candidate, faces apprehension as he challenges the stronghold of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). Meanwhile, Bhrugu Baxipatra, who recently switched loyalties from BJP to BJD, is tasked with defending the seat for his new party. The contest promises to be intense as both candidates have deep roots in their respective former parties.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released a 60-page booklet criticizing the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha, alleging failures in various sectors and targeting Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and his aide VK Pandian. The booklet cites the government’s inability to improve farmers’ livelihoods, ensure women’s safety, address youth migration, and enhance healthcare services. It accuses Pandian, who is of non-Odia origin, of being responsible for the government’s shortcomings and compares him to a historical figure associated with temple attacks. The BJP has also highlighted Pandian’s security cover and questioned its necessity. The BJD has dismissed the booklet’s allegations as baseless and politically motivated.
The Odisha Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a scathing attack on the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government, releasing a booklet titled ’25 Years’ Box of Sins’ that alleges corruption, misgovernance, anti-farmer policies, atrocities against women, and anti-tribal deeds. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav and Odisha BJP chief Manmohan Samal accused the BJD of concentrating power in the hands of a select group of bureaucrats, sidelining MLAs and Ministers. They specifically targeted V.K. Pandian, a close aide of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, portraying him as the face of corruption and mismanagement.
