Odisha by-poll: BJP to report government machinery misuse

The Odisha BJP Monday decided to constitute a six-member committee to inquire into the use of government machinery in ensuring the victory of BJD candidate Pratysha Rajeswari Singh in the Kandhamal parliamentary by-election.

The party would submit the inquiry report to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said senior BJP leader Samir Mohanty, who will head the committee.

BJP national secretary and Odisha party in-charge Arun Singh said: "The committee will inquire into the role of state administration, Asha and Anganwadi workers in the Kandhamal parliamentary by-election. The ruling party used officials and money power to ensure the victory of its candidate."

He also urged the Election Commission to conduct a thorough probe into the misuse of the government machinery and use of muscle and money power.

He said: "The child development project officers (CDPOs) were influencing the SHGs to cast their votes in favour of BJD. They were threatening them to block the grant, if they did not vote for the BJD candidate."

Alleging that the BJD has violated the model code of conduct during electioneering, he also said the party will file a complaint with the Election Commission to look into the matter and take necessary action.

However, the ruling party leaders rubbished the BJP allegations.

BJD spokesperson Pratap Dev said: "The BJP has been accusing us of using muscle power, money power and administrative machinery during every election. There is nothing new in it. All the allegations are baseless."

Meanwhile, the saffron party has decided to start its membership drive from Nov 1 to induct 40 lakh members into the party.

This was decided in the office bearers' meeting, chaired by party vice-president Samir De.