5T secretary VK Pandian launched a veiled attack on Gopalpur MLA, Pradeep Panigrahy during a public meeting at Kanishi in Ganjam on Friday.
Pandian said, "During Covid, a people's representative called the Chief Minister and said we should not allow the return of Ganjam people staying outside as it would worsen the Covid situation in the district. We should survive first then think about others. The CM got angry and asked us to ensure the safe return of the residents from outside."
“He also tried to create fear among people during Covid times through social media campaigns,” Pandian alleged.
Later, in response to 5T secretary’s statement, Panigrahy said, "VK Pandian is a liar; I give an open statement that VK Pandian is a great, great liar."
Earlier in the day, the MLA was intercepted near the Lanjipalli flyover allegedly by BJD workers. A heated argument broke out between supporters of the lawmaker and the ruling party workers. It was alleged that Panigrahy was manhandled by the supporters of the BJD.
Speaking to reporters after he was allegedly attacked by the BJD supporters, Panigrahy said, “I have been constantly followed and attacked after I announced that I will visit Kanishi on the day Pandian visits that place. There are some goons of the BJD who tried to attack me by climbing on my vehicle. The police stopped me on the Highway and not allowed me to move ahead.”
Panigrahy asked, “How do you justify a 4000-strong police force for a private secretary’s security and absolutely no security for a public representative?”