2 MLAs' pic with with dreaded goon fuels talk of nexus

Bhubaneswar: The rapport between politicians and criminals has again become the much talked about topic following circulation of photos in the media of dreaded criminal of Balasore Khasua alias Sushant Das with two MLAs.

BJD MLA from Balasore Sadar Jeevan Pradip Das and BJP legislator from Remuna Gobind Das have been clicked with Khasua in a way that suggests the two politicians share a very good bonding with the dreaded criminal.

Notably, charges of dacoity, loot and extortions are pending against the Khasua gang in Balasore.

Jeevan Pradip Das had, however, refuted the charge saying; “He (Khasua) gave me a flower bouquet and somebody might have clicked the photo. However, neither I know him nor have i talked to him.”

Similarly, Gobind das, Remuna MLA stated, “At functions, I used to meet him. He used to pay respect to me and I know him as Khasua, that much rapport we share. I did not have any business deals or transactions with him.”

Commenting on the issue, Basant Panda, State BJP president said, “There is nothing wrong in clicking photos with someone. At the same time, I can guarantee that no MLA of our party is involved in any criminal activities.”