Berhampur: Taking a dig at Odisha Food Supplies Minister Surjya Narayan Patro, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan today alleged that Patro and his son were grilled by the CBI in connection with their involvement in chit fund scam. Pradhan's statement came during a 'Jan Paramarsh Yatra' in Digapahandi area of Ganjam district.
Further responding to the allegations of non-receipt of LPG subsidy, Pradhan revealed that Patro has received a subsidy of Rs 1850 for five LPG cylinders since April this year. "It is shameful that despite availing subsidy for LPG cylinders provided by the Centre, Surjya Narayan Patro is bringing such allegations," Pradhan said.
However, Patro brushed aside the allegation of availing LPG subsidy. He also refuted their involvement in chit fund scam saying neither he nor his son was called by the investigative agency.
"Forget about grilling, nobody has ever talked to me about chit fund issue. Like everyone else I took LPG cylinders for my family, but I have not received any subsidy," Patro said.
Earlier on Friday, responding to the complaints about failure of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) in Odisha, Pradhan had explained about the PMUY requesting the BJD government to cooperate in making Odisha 100 per cent smoke-free State and not involve in politics over a sacred scheme.
Pradhan had also written a letter to Patro referring to the ‘factually incorrect’ news reports on beneficiaries under PMUY failing to avail LPG cylinder refilling.