TV
The arrest of Amaresh Jena aka Baiyan has ignited a fierce political slugfest in Odisha, with ruling BJP and Opposition BJD trading accusations. Both parties are locked in a blame game over women’s safety and past government inaction.
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Political tensions in Odisha have escalated into a heated war of words between the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Both parties have launched sharp allegations against each other, each accusing the other of failure in safeguarding women and misusing political platforms.
Senior BJD leader Ashok Panda stated that their party has always prioritised women’s safety and maintained a ‘zero-tolerance’ approach to such crimes, regardless of accused’s social status. He emphasised that whether in power or in opposition, BJD’s policy has remained consistent.
“We have never shielded the accused. No one is above ‘accountability’,” said Panda. He also took a veiled swipe at BJP, alleging that such commitment is lacking in other political parties, hinting at the BJP.
“I had informed this to the party supremo and disciplinary committee a few days ago. You (mediapersons) analyse yourself what others are doing” the BJD leader stated.
On the other hand, ruling BJP has fired back by questioning the conduct of previous BJD-led government. BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal highlighted that the victim had been subjected to abuse since 2023 but could not lodge a complaint due to fear and political pressure under the BJD regime. “Now that there’s faith in the system, she has finally come forward. Justice will now prevail,” Biswal affirmed.
“She (the complainant) did not have confidence on the previous government; hence, was feeling insecure to make a complaint. Those who suspended him (Amaresh) should also take up the moral responsibility if they are truly sensitive to the issue,” Biswal added.
The issue has quickly evolved from legal matter into full-blown political confrontation, with both parties striving to control the narrative on women’s rights and justice delivery.
