TV
Sarpanches and samiti members from various panchayats under Balikuda block in Jagatsinghpur have levelled allegations of misbehaviour against the Balikuda Block Development Officer (BDO). The panchayat representatives met the Jagatsinghpur Collector on Thursday, lodged a formal complaint, and submitted a memorandum demanding action.
Dispute Over Development Projects
According to the representatives, the disagreement arose when they approached the BDO to discuss the Bikashita Gaon Bikashita Odisha programme. They alleged that instead of cooperating, the BDO misbehaved with them. Panchayat leaders claimed that the BDO unilaterally shortlisted an agency for village development projects without consulting elected representatives, leading to heated exchanges.
Voices of the Panchayat Leaders
Supriya Das, Sarpanch of Tandipur Panchayat, said, “All the Sarpanches and Samiti members of 30 panchayats have gathered here because of the way we were treated. We only wanted to be informed about the projects as Sarpanches. Instead, we were accused and insulted. If this demand for respect and cooperation is not fulfilled, we will stop taking responsibility as Sarpanches.”
Balikuda Panchayat Samiti Chairman Prakash Pradhan added, “For developmental work, we stand united, irrespective of our political affiliations. The BDO shortlisted the agency himself without informing us. When questioned, he said his JE would get arrested and misbehaved with us. We met the Collector and were assured justice.”
Jagatsinghpur District Sarpanch Sangh President Prashant Barik stated, “We went to ensure that developmental works are carried out properly. The BDO refused to listen and mistreated us. If this matter is not resolved, we will launch a protest on August 29.”
BDO Yet to Respond
While the panchayat leaders have voiced strong objections, no response from the Balikuda BDO has been received so far.
