Bhubaneswar: At a time when Odisha government has given a clarion call for a united fight against Coronavirus, ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA, Pranab Prakash Das violated COVID-19 norms on his birthday, alleged major opposition parties on Monday.
Both BJP and Congress leaders came down heavily on Pranab Prakash Das for violating social distancing norms during his birthday. The pictures of the birthday congregation were posted on Das’ official twitter handle had also gone viral on social media. The opposition parties also targeted Das for not wearing a face mask.
Deputy leader of the opposition, Bishnu Sethi said, “The lockdown and shutdown norms don’t mean anything for the ruling-BJD as they are above the law. Even SPs don’t dare to look into the eyes of BJD leaders and same is the situation of district Collectors.”
Sethi further stated that if a senior leader like Pranab Prakash Das will act irresponsibly and break the norms, its impact will be certainly on the grassroots level workers. “If such situation prevails, then CM Naveen Patnaik’s message that we will fight and win against COVID-19 will remain just words,” he added.
BJP General Secretary, Golak Mohapatra said, “Before indulging in any celebration, we must remember that we are accountable to the society.”
Senior Congress leader, Ranjib Biswal said, “If any person is not cautious, he/she will suffer. Coronavirus doesn't check if a person is an MLA, CM or the Prime Minister. We the leaders should educate others that wearing mask is necessary to break the chain of COVID-19.”
On the other hand, Pranab Prakash Das could not be contacted for his comments on the allegations levelled by the opposition.
Earlier, a case was registered against the Odisha Health Minister Naba Das' daughter, Deepali for allegedly violating COVID-19 guidelines. As per reports, the minister’s daughter allegedly violated social distancing norms during a felicitation ceremony organised for Covid-19 warriors at the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) office on June 22.
Deepali clarified that she did not violate Covid guidelines. “A meeting was organised in presence of members from various voluntary organisations to felicitate Corona warriors for their contribution and sacrifice, but some frustrated people have raised these allegations. I want to make it clear that I always respect rules and will continue to fight against Coronavirus and work for the betterment of the people of Jharsuguda.
(Edited By Bikram Keshari Jena)
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