BJP demands CBI probe into 'sapling, Omfed, cooperative bank loan scams'

Bhubaneswar: Mounting its attack on the ruling-BJD, BJP today demanded probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the alleged sapling, cooperative bank loan and Omfed scams.

In a presser, BJP spokesperson Pitambar Acharya said the saffron party will hit the streets if the ruling-BJD does not pay heed to the demands and handover the cases to CBI for investigation. He further asked why the Chief Minister is mum when the Agriculture Minister, Pradeep Maharathy has accepted the irregularities on the floor of the Odisha Assembly.

“If he (Naveen) thinks he is not accountable, the people of Odisha will give a befitting reply through ballots. If the CM does not handover the cases for CBI probe, the BJP will hit the streets and take legal help,” said Acharya.

Refuting the charges, BJD said discussions on alleged irregularities were held in the Assembly and people of the State are aware of the fact.

“As far as corruption is concerned, it was debated in the House. The government will take necessary steps in this regard. The ruling party doesn’t need any advice from the BJP spokesperson,” said BJD spokesperson, Pratap Deb.

“Statements of Acharya show that he and his party have lost their minds. It should not be a matter of concern for the BJP whatever decisions are taken by the BJD supremo regarding his party members,” he added.

It is pertinent to mention that recently senior legislator Damodar Rout had created ripples in the political circle and caught the ruling-BJD off-guard by alleging irregularities in sapling scheme, procurement of polythene in Omfed, cooperative bank loans and in the health sector.

Later BJD president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expelled Rout on charges of involvement in anti-party activities.