‘Black Rose’ ship sinking in Paradip: Odisha to conduct formal inquiry, expose BJD ‘foul play’

The Odisha government will launch a formal investigation into the sinking of the ‘Black Rose ship’ in Paradip stated BJP MLA Padmalochan Panda.

Speaking to media persons, the MLA reiterated former claims by his party regarding possible foul play and the involvement of high-profile personalities behind the iron-ore-laden ship’s sinking.

Further, he stated that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi was in discussion to proceed with the inquiry, which will focus on identifying who was importing goods through the ship, whether it had the required permits and licenses, and what activities were being carried out on it.

“The previous BJD government never inquired who operated the ship, who had ordered the shipment or whether it had a permit to enter the port. Massive corruption has taken place during the previous regime and CM Majhi will soon announce a formal inquiry to expose the truth,” added Panda.

The renewed investigation call follows earlier demands from Odisha BJP for a CBI probe into the sinking of the Mongolian vessel MV Black Rose. Notably, on September 9, 2009, the ship sank near Paradip Port while allegedly carrying 23,847 metric tons of iron ore and 920 metric tons of furnace oil to China.

Speculations had then arisen that the iron ore worth crores of rupees was being smuggled abroad. While 26 of the 27 crew members were rescued, the chief engineer died. Additionally, no concrete reasons behind its sinking were ever known.

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Before forming the current government, the Odisha BJP alleged that powerful BJD leaders were involved in the case. Moreover, it had also alleged that despite multiple demands for a CBI inquiry and intervention by the Orissa High Court, the previous government allegedly suppressed the matter.