Opposition BJP and Congress Thursday slammed Odisha's Law Minister Pratap Jena for allegedly announcing cash reward for the panchayat from where the ruling BJD candidate of Salipur Assembly seat would get the maximum number of votes.
An audio tape of the minister's "announcement" of Rs 35 lakh reward has gone viral on social media.
Alleging that the minister has violated the model code of conduct, the BJP complained to the state's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and lodged an FIR against Jena.
The Congress also said it would loge a complaint with the CEO against the minister.
BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra said the matter is under the CEO's scanner and he will make a decision in this regard.
The minister was not available for comment.
"Jena has violated the model code of conduct. We apprised the CEO of the matter today and demanded his prosecution under the Indian Penal Code," BJP state vice-president Samir Mohanty said.
State Congress spokesman Satya P Nayak said, "Jena should be debarred from the election process."
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app