Opposition parties slam Odisha Government over ‘crime handling’, BJP responds

The government in Odisha faces criticism from opposition parties with claims of failing law and order in Bharatpur and Kabisuryanagar incidents. BJD leader and Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya condemned the BJP-led government on Monday for the perceived governance failures noting frequent incidents. BJP has responded to the accusations.

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Acharya alleged that police measures unfairly targeted opposition parties.

Accusations made by BJD leader

“Disturbances and law and order situations are occurring in any part of the State, including Bhubaneswar, and police are completely failing to tackle the adverse situations. It feels as if the police are prepared to take action against opposition parties alone. But, they have no control over those who are breaking the law,” BJD’s Acharya expressed.

“Police are able to show their strength inside and outside the Legislative Assembly premises. But, when crimes are being committed in broad daylight, police fail to nab the accused. The incident that occurred yesterday (on March 30) in Bharatpur locality of Bhubaneswar is a shameful one,” the BJD leader said.

Congress legislative leader Rama Chandra Kadam also voiced similar concerns, specifically highlighting the disparity between the swift police action against opposition MLAs and the lack of adequate public protection.

“Police are being engaged to prevent Congress party leaders from entering the Legislative Assembly. The law and order system in the State has collapsed in providing protection to people. It is very unfortunate,” Congress MLA Kadam stated.

In response, Odisha’s Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan defended the State’s record, asserting that the crime rate in Odisha has decreased significantly. He claimed that in many cases, suspects are arrested within 24 to 72 hours.

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The Law Minister also criticised the Opposition parties for disregarding the State government's successes, accusing them of mere political manoeuvring. “A White Paper was previously released for information of the Opposition parties. The law and order situation in the State has improved and the crime rate has declined. BJD and Congress have united like two siblings and are raising allegations against the Government,” he added.