Naba Das was warned to stay away from coal block transportation prior to his murder: Congress MLA

Amidst several theories and alleged discrepancies in the investigation into the sensational murder of former BJD leader and minister Naba Das, Congress MLA Santosh Singh Saluja on Tuesday made some shocking revelations that could emerge as a potential evidence if the case is handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

In an exclusive interview to OTV, the Congress MLA Santosh Singh Saluja, who happened to one of the close friends of late Naba Das, said that there was pressure on Naba Das to stay away from transportation from the coal block in Jharsuguda.

“I shared a deep relationship with Naba Das. I was sitting with Naba Das when he told me that there was pressure from the top and the then SP and Collector asked him to step back from the coal block transportation. Naba Das had then told the concerned SP and Collector not to meddle as he had already spoken this with the top. Naba Das had clearly stated that he would not budge and would not compromise on one district that is Jharsuguda,” said Saluja.

According to Saluja, Naba Das was subsequently killed some days after the incident. 

Also Read: Former Odisha minister Naba Das’ murder was calculated conspiracy?

“When an inquiry over allegations of conspiracy is taken up, the former officials can shed light on who had told them to pressurise Naba Das. I had earlier demanded a CBI probe. We are demanding a probe by CBI as all those who were behind the conspiracy can booked,” said the Congress MLA.

Saluja further said that the previous BJD government went to the Crime Branch to destroy the case and from the ongoing trial, it is evident that there is some conspiracy in the Naba Das murder case.