Local BJD leaders inaugurate project ahead of MP Jay Panda's scheduled inauguration

Salipur: The MPLAD-funded overhead water tank project at Mahajanpur scheduled to be dedicated to people by Kendrapara MP Baijayant 'Jay' Panda on Monday was today hurriedly inaugurated by Salipur block Vice Chairman Ramesh Jena in presence of his supporters.

Jena , along with BJD activists  reached the project site and inaugurated the water tank in presence of Zilla Parishad member Subhasish Pradhan.

Replying to queries by media persons, Jena said he was clueless about Panda's visit.

“We have no information on the MP’s programme or schedule. As the project is meant to address the drinking water issues of the locals, I inaugurated the project today.” Jena said

It is not for the first time that attempts are being made by local BJD members to hijack the MP's project inauguration.

Earlier on Thursday Aul block chairperson Jharana Das, had inaugurated the water tank project at Sansidha panchayat in absence of Panda who was scheduled to inaugurate it the next day.

Commenting on the matter, Panda had said, “I have no objection as the basic purpose of such projects is to ensure that it fulfils the drinking water requirements of people. But as per rules, the project should have been inaugurated in MP’s presence as it was built from MPLAD fund.”