BJP Slams Naveen Patnaik Over Demand for Release of Ranka, Das
Bhubaneswar: A fresh political confrontation has erupted in Odisha after Leader of Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik sought the release of Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das, who are currently under judicial custody.
The demand drew a sharp response from the ruling BJP, which accused the former Chief Minister of politicising a sensitive issue.
Earlier, Naveen Patnaik expressed concern over the continued detention of the two individuals, stating that hoisting the National Flag, even in a prohibited area, should not lead to prolonged incarceration.
He urged the authorities to review the matter and ensure that constitutional rights and public faith in the rule of law are upheld.
Reacting strongly, the Odisha BJP questioned Patnaik’s stand and alleged that he was attempting to gain political mileage from the issue.
The party argued that matters relating to national security and sovereignty should not be viewed through a political lens.
The BJP further linked the controversy to the ongoing debate surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Party leaders accused the previous BJD government of allowing illegal Bangladeshi immigrants to settle in Odisha and become part of the voter database.
They also criticised Patnaik for opposing the electoral roll revision exercise.
Maintaining that Odisha has a long tradition of peace and respect for national sovereignty, BJP leaders asserted that security concerns must take precedence over political considerations.
The exchange has intensified the political battle between the BJP and the BJD, with both parties attempting to shape public opinion on issues involving constitutional rights, governance, electoral integrity, and national security.
