It is IT vs GST raids in bypoll-bound Padampur

The BJP and BJD seem to have locked horns in a fierce battle ahead of the bypoll to Padampur Assembly Constituency.

In what could be called a revenge raid to the Income Tax raids at three places in Padampur on Monday morning, the State government has reportedly unleashed GST officials to conduct raids on some business establishments in the towns of Paikmal and Jharbandha including Padampur.

BJP leader, Pinki Pradhan, who was at a garment shop in Padampur raided by the GST officials, expressed her displeasure. Speaking to media, she said, “I have not seen anything like this ever. I have come here to buy a blanket as winter is rather harsh here in Padampur. But what I saw here is beyond my imagination. There are 2 platoons of police force accompanying the GST officials exactly like Jammu and Kashmir during Army raid on terrorist hideouts.”

“I want the law to take its own course. If there is any misappropriation of finances at all, then the raids are welcome. But it is directed as a tool to avenge the IT raids in the morning, then I condemn it,” she added.

Earlier on Monday morning, Income Tax department officials reportedly carried out simultaneous raids at the residences of three senior BJD workers in poll-bound Padampur in Bargarh district.

These BJD workers were identified as Md Sajid of Bahidarpada, Manabhanjan Sahu of Sahupada and Gaju Agrawal of Badapada areas in Padampur.

The raids began early in the morning in presence of armed CRPF jawans.

It is yet to be confirmed as to why the raids are being carried out. The raids assume significance as Padampur bypoll is scheduled to be held on December 5 and all the persons under Income Tax scanner are senior BJD workers and supporters.

(Reported by Sanjay, OTV )