Pandian is ruling Odisha, not Naveen Patnaik: Oram

Berhampur: Targeting Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik over his silence on the issue of BJD MLA Debasish Samantaray shoving Pulwama martyr’s kin, Union Minister Jual Oram today alleged that the State is being ruled by CM's private secretary VK Pandian.

Oram targeted the CM while addressing a public meeting in Sorada block of Ganjam district during his visit to the district.

"Do you think Odisha CM Naveen is ruling the State? No, the State is being ruled by his private secretary VK Pandian. Then why should people vote for CM Naveen," Oram questioned.

"Odisha CM maintained silence over the incident of BJD MLA Debasish Samantaray shoving Pulwama martyr's kin as Pandian is ruling the State," Oram said.

Responding to Oram's statement, BJD MLA of Surada, Purna Chandra Swain said, "Odisha CM was managing the affairs in the State even before Pandian was appointed as private secretary. The opposition parties are targeting him (CM Naveen) to hide their own weakness."