TV
A major political controversy has erupted in Kujang block of Jagatsinghpur district involving allegations of bribery and blackmail between the local BDO and the Sarpanch of Sailo panchayat.
In a recent press conference, the BJP unit of Sailo panchayat levelled serious allegations against Sarpanch Saroj Sethy, accusing him of creating administrative instability and attempting to blackmail officials.
According to BJP leaders, Sarpanch Saroj Sethy had earlier alleged that he paid a bribe of Rs 1.5 lakh to BDO Deepak Prasad Swain. Sethy had warned in a press meet on July 24 that if the money was not returned within 15 days, he would commit self-immolation in front of the district Collector’s office.
The BJP, however, countered this claim, stating that Sethy is using the sensitive issue of self-immolation as a tool to pressure and manipulate the administration. They argue that since the Sarpanch himself admitted to giving a bribe, which is a criminal offense, legal action should be initiated against him. BJP leaders have demanded his immediate arrest.
Meanwhile, Saroj Sethy has responded to the allegations, defending his position. In a significant development, a district-level independent committee has reportedly been formed to investigate the bribery claims.
However, no official statement has yet been received from BDO Deepak Prasad Swain regarding the matter.
