Bhubaneswar, Dec. 31 -- Odisha has witnessed a breakdown of law and order and a slowdown in growth during the last 18 months of BJP rule, BJD Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra said on Wednesday. Presenting data highlighting a sharp rise in crimes against women during this period, Patra told reporters that Odisha has faced both national and state-level condemnation due to the deteriorating law-and-order situation.
Patra alleged that the crisis began after the BJP assumed power in June 2024, citing an incident involving the then Governor's son at the Governor's residence in Puri. According to Patra, a government officer was assaulted, spat upon with a shoe, and forced to lick it,a shameful episode reportedly suppressed by the state government.
He...