CBI probe into Talabira coal mine irregularities triggers political uproar

The ongoing CBI investigation into alleged irregularities in the Talabira coal mine operations in the Jharsuguda district of Odisha has sparked a political war of words.

BJP's Jharsuguda MLA, Tankadhar Tripathy has indirectly pointed fingers at the leaders of the current opposition party and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. He has suggested that the probe may potentially expose misconduct. “Any actions done against the rules and regulations come to the fore during CBI’s investigation, and if kickbacks are involved then that is another severe offence. With CBI’s probe, the truth is going to be out and it will also expose the true nature of people who are claiming to be innocent,” he added further.

On the other hand, Congress MLA CS Raazen Ekka has called for a thorough investigation into the Hindalco case as well emphasizing that justice should be served regardless of who is implicated. “Be it an opposition party leader or anyone responsible, whoever was in charge during that time should not be spared for any misconduct or any unlawful activities,” he stated.

In response, BJD MLA Pradip Dishari said, “People know that in his 24-year tenure, the ex-CM ensured utmost transparency in governance. It is my strong belief that Naveen Patnaik is not involved in any corruption.”