Bhubaneswar: Preparations for the scheduled visit of All Indian Congress Committee chief Rahul Gandhi to Bhubaneswar on January 25 are at final stages with a Special Protection Group (SPG) visiting mini stadium at Tamando here on Tuesday to oversee the security arrangements at the venue.
Reports said, officials of SPG reviewed the security at the stadium, including the stage, public stands, routes and traffic arrangements near the venue.
Senior officials of Commissionerate Police, top Congress leaders of Khurda and Bhubaneswar were also present with the SPG officials.
Meanwhile, ahead of the party president's visit, the Odisha unit of Congress has accused the ruling-BJD of trying to foil the event.
Bhubaneswar District Congress president, Manas Choudhury has alleged that the RTOs and Collectors have become agents of the ruling party and are trying to create hurdles for programme but despite that huge public support will make the event successful.
BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra has refuted the allegations and said, “Congress is on the verge of drowning and want some issues to divert the attention. By levelling such false allegations, if they think that they can save themselves, it is really hilarious.”
On the other hand, Bhubaneswar ACP Sanjay Singh who reviewed the security arrangments at the mini stadium today informed, “We do not have any information regarding the time of the meeting at Tamando Mini Stadium. Once we get the timings confirmed, we will make security arrangement accordingly. The SPG provides the close proximity security whereas outer periphery will be guarded by local police.”
AICC in-charge of Odisha Jitendra Singh said, “Rahul Gandhiji will attend a public rally, meet the workers of the party and other programmes have also been lined up during his visit. Rahulji and his family has a long relationship with Odisha and he has a different place for the tribal and poor people of the State in his heart.”