Ganjam CDO Accuses Aska MLA Saroj Padhi of Death Threats, Files Police Complaint

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Bhubaneswar: Ganjam Zilla Parishad Chief Development Officer (CDO)-cum-Executive Officer Samir Kumar Jena has lodged a written complaint against Aska MLA Saroj Kumar Padhi, accusing him of issuing death threats, using abusive language, misbehaving and obstructing official duties.

Jena approached Aska Police Station seeking legal action against the legislator and protection for his life. However, reacting to the allegations, MLA Saroj Padhi said that the incident was the result of a misunderstanding that has since been resolved.

According to the complaint, the alleged incident occurred around 7 pm on November 3 inside the office chamber of the Executive Officer of Aska Municipality.

Jena stated that he was holding discussions with the Municipal Chairperson when the MLA entered the chamber along with the Municipal Executive Officer and allegedly asked others present to leave.

The MLA then reportedly questioned Jena over the distribution of relief materials and allegedly shouted at him.

In his complaint, Jena explained that the relief materials had been arranged by the Steel and Mines Minister and that he had handed them over to the concerned persons following telephonic instructions from the Minister.

However, the explanation allegedly angered the MLA further.

Jena claimed that Padhi asserted his authority in the constituency, allegedly saying, “I am the Minister in Aska. Nothing happens here without my consent.”

The CDO stated that he advised the legislator to discuss any differences with the Minister directly, as he had merely followed official instructions.

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However, the MLA allegedly continued shouting and accused Jena of creating disturbances in the area over the previous four to five days.

The situation reportedly escalated when Padhi allegedly threatened to push Jena out of the office and issued threats to his life.

Jena further alleged that the MLA raised his hand towards him and used abusive language during the confrontation.

Sensing the seriousness of the situation, Jena’s Personal Security Officer (PSO) reportedly advised him to leave the chamber, following which he exited the office.

The CDO has claimed that the entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed at the premises. He has requested police to examine the footage to establish the sequence of events.

In his complaint, Jena stated that the incident had caused him severe mental distress and raised concerns about his personal safety.

He urged police to initiate appropriate legal action against the MLA, ensure his protection and provide justice.

Meanwhile, MLA Saroj Padhi, responding to the allegations, maintained that there had been a misunderstanding and that the matter had already been resolved.

Also read: Bhubaneswar Elderly Woman Murder: Police Suspect another Person’s Involvement Along With Caretaker

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