Short Description
Two years after Odisha ex-health minister Naba Das’ assassination, BJP and BJD clash over probe allegations, escalating political tensions in Odisha regarding transparency and accountability.
Read Time
3 minutes and 45 seconds
Main Article
Nearly two years have passed since the shocking assassination of former Odisha Health Minister Naba Das, raising persistent questions about the investigation that followed. The political rivalry between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has intensified as both parties engage in a war of words regarding the adequacy and transparency of the ongoing probe. On January 29, 2023, Naba Das was tragically gunned down by assistant sub-inspector Gopal Das in Jharsuguda, sparking widespread discussions around political motives and allegations of conspiracy.
BJP members, including Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit, have leveled severe accusations against unnamed BJD politicians, suggesting they played pivotal roles in the murder plot. Purohit characterized the case as one deeply intertwined with political ambitions and alleged business conflicts, emphasizing the need for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry. Similarly, senior BJP MLA Jayanarayan Mishra pointed to the involvement of high-ranking officials—a claim that, if substantiated, could reveal deeper corruption within the governing body. Claims of political machinations surrounding Das’ death have further polarized an already charged political climate in Odisha.
In response, the BJD has dismissed these allegations as politically motivated attempts to undermine their government. Senior BJD leader Bhupinder Singh defended the ongoing investigation, noting that Gopal Das was arrested immediately, with a chargesheet already filed. They assert that the crime branch’s inquiry is thorough and that the BJP’s insistence on a CBI probe signals a lack of confidence in the existing investigation. Singh’s comments reflect broader concerns about using high-profile cases for political gain, as both parties strive to control the narrative surrounding this tragic event.
The fallout from Naba Das’ assassination continues to reverberate throughout Odisha’s political landscape. As various factions pressure the government for accountability, the public remains intrigued by the case’s complexities. Will the unfolding narrative lead to a more profound examination of systemic issues within the state’s political structure? As the dialogue grows more heated, one thing remains evident: the quest for truth in this high-profile murder case has captivated public interest, revealing the intricate web of politics, power, and accountability.
Short Summary
The ongoing allegations surrounding the murder investigation of former Odisha Health Minister Naba Das reveal a growing political rift between the BJP and BJD. As both parties exchange accusations, the quest for truth remains critical, underscoring the need for effective oversight in political affairs.
