The leaders of the state BJP unit staged a dharna in front of the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), demanding the immediate arrest of BJD leaders V K Pandian and Pranab Prakash Das.
· The agitation was spurred by allegations implicating the BJD figures in the unauthorized broadcast of exit polls by a local private news channel.
· The BJP’s protest underscored the party’s unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the democratic process and ensuring fair and transparent elections.
· Despite the mounting pressure and the resolute demands for accountability, neither the BJD nor the implicated authorities have issued a formal response to the allegations.
In a dramatic display of discontent, leaders of the state BJP unit convened outside the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) in Odisha, staging a vociferous protest and demanding the immediate arrest of two prominent BJD leaders, V K Pandian and Pranab Prakash Das. The agitation was spurred by allegations implicating the BJD figures in the unauthorized broadcast of exit polls by a local private news channel, a move perceived by the BJP as a deliberate attempt to manipulate public opinion and sway the outcome of the forthcoming elections in the state.
The BJP’s protest, characterized by slogans and placards denouncing electoral malpractice, underscored the party’s unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the democratic process and ensuring fair and transparent elections. Leaders voiced concerns over the alleged violation of election regulations and emphasized the imperative of holding accountable those responsible for subverting the sanctity of the electoral mandate.
The genesis of the controversy can be traced back to Wednesday when the BJP lodged a formal complaint with the Chief Election Commissioner of India, urging swift action against the erring news channel. The Election Commission promptly responded by directing the CEO, Odisha, to initiate immediate proceedings and furnish a detailed compliance report by the stipulated deadline.
Addressing the gathering of protesters, BJP leader Babu Singh articulated the party’s stance on the matter, asserting the gravity of the situation and calling for decisive measures to curb electoral misconduct. Singh singled out VK Pandian and Pranab Prakash Das, holding them accountable for their alleged involvement in what he described as a brazen attempt to subvert the democratic process.
Jagannath Pradhan, another prominent BJP figure demanded stringent penalties, including the temporary suspension of the offending news channel until the conclusion of the election cycle, as a deterrent against future infractions.
Despite the mounting pressure exerted by the BJP and the resolute demands for accountability, neither the BJD nor the implicated authorities have issued a formal response to the allegations. The absence of a rebuttal from the accused parties has only served to fuel speculation and intensify public scrutiny surrounding the unfolding controversy.
As the political climate in Odisha becomes increasingly charged in the lead-up to the elections, the BJP’s protest serves as a potent reminder of the critical importance of preserving the integrity of the electoral process and safeguarding the principles of democracy against any attempts at subversion or manipulation.
(With inputs from agencies)