Bhubaneswar, Dec. 5 -- Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday declared that political protection for criminals no longer exists in Odisha, asserting that the police have been given a 'free licence' to act tough against offenders, irrespective of their influence or affiliation.

The Chief Minister made the statement while presenting his remarks during the discussion on the Home Department's demand for grants in the State Assembly. He alleged that law and order had remained out of control in the last 5-10 years, and accused the previous government of shielding criminals.

According to the CM, the state topped the national chart in crimes against women during previous years, and police stations were 'virtually functioning as party off...