Thu Dec 19 16:31:26 UTC 2024: **BJD Accuses Odisha Minister of Overlooking Bribery Case in CBI Probe**
BHUBANESWAR, Odisha – The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Odisha’s main opposition party, has accused the state government of overlooking the involvement of a cabinet minister in a bribery case currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This is the first major bribery allegation leveled by the BJD since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in Odisha in June 2024.
The BJD alleges that Minister Nityananda Gond, responsible for ST and SC Development, Minorities, and Backward Classes Welfare, should be included in the CBI’s investigation. The party points to the summoning of the department’s secretary, Bishnupada Sethi (since removed), over alleged contract irregularities and the seizure of ₹10 lakh in unaccounted cash. The BJD argues that Gond’s approval was necessary for contracts totaling ₹37 crore awarded to Bridge and Roofs Corporation, and for other contracts worth ₹387 crore awarded to various central PSUs. These awards, the BJD claims, bypassed standard Odisha Public Works Department (OPWD) procedures, potentially leading to inflated project costs and kickbacks. Further, the party highlights the fact that one of the companies, Water and Power Consultancy Services, was blacklisted earlier in the year.
The BJD questions the impartiality of the CBI investigation and expresses suspicion regarding the role of Chief Minister Mohan Majhi. The party announced it will celebrate its 28th Foundation Day on December 26th, highlighting its past achievements and drawing attention to the rising cost of living.
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