Odisha government neck deep in corruption: Congress

Bhubaneswar, Dec 28 (IANS) The Congress on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the BJD-led government in Odisha, accusing it of being neck deep in corruption during its 15-year rule in the state.

Prasad Harichandan, who on Sunday took the charge of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC), said corruption has spread from top to bottom during the 15-year rule of the Biju Janata Dal.

"The government is neck deep in corruption and it has spread from top to bottom. From (Chief Minister) Naveen Patnaik to the BJD’s panchayat-level worker, all are steeped in corruption – from head to toe. Besides, they have themselves admitted that their image has been sullied," said Harichandan.

The OPCC president hoped that his party workers would fight against the tainted government with a renewed vigour and hit the streets to fulfil the expectations of the people of Odisha who are waiting for a better alternative from the corrupt government.

He said the party leaders are united and would fight for coming to power.

"We are united and will return to power. I wish and hope that we live up to the expectations of the common man of the state. We will strengthen the party from grassroots level to live up the expectations of people," said Harichandan after a party meeting.

While the Congress is known for the factionalism in the state, several senior leaders of the party attended the meeting. Sunday also happens to be the 130th foundation day of the Congress.

Congress general scretary B.K. Hariprasad, who is in charge of the party’s affairs in Odisha, also attended the meeting.

The party has decided to hold a brain-storming session Jan 7 to formulate strategies and a road map for the party in the coming days.

The BJD rubbished all the allegations of the Congress.

"It’s a usual practice of the Congress to accuse the BJD. There is nothing new. Since Prasad assumed the office today, he made his political statement," said BJD spokesperson Pratap Dev.