Odisha Chief Minister Declares End to Political Protection for Criminals
Bhubaneswar - Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has firmly declared that his Bharatiya Janata Party government maintains a strict policy of zero tolerance towards criminal activity, particularly crimes against women, during his 18-month tenure in office.
Speaking during a legislative assembly debate on Home department grant demands, Chief Minister Majhi addressed growing concerns over women's safety in the state. "Violence against women is very worrying. I personally would like no single incident against women to happen," Majhi stated, acknowledging the gravity of the situation while defending his administration's approach.
Opposition Criticism and Government Response
The opposition parties, including the Biju Janata Dal and Congress, have criticized the state government over several high-profile cases, including gang-rape incidents in Gopalpur and Baliharchandi districts, and tragic self-immolation cases involving women students facing harassment.
In response to these criticisms, Chief Minister Majhi challenged opposition members to identify any case where his government provided political protection to accused individuals. "The criminal involved in violence against women will not be forgiven for a moment. The culprit will be made a government guest and kept in jail," he declared with characteristic firmness.
Swift Justice and Professional Investigation
The Chief Minister highlighted his administration's commitment to rapid prosecution of crimes against minors and women. He cited a recent case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act at Chandaka police station, which was completed within 37 days, resulting in a 20-year rigorous imprisonment sentence for the accused.
"I want to assure the people of the State that there will be no leniency towards criminals in Odisha. The political protection licence that they had under the previous government has expired and there is no chance of its renewal," Majhi emphasized, drawing a clear distinction between his administration and previous governments.
Parliamentary Debate and Legislative Action
During the assembly proceedings, BJD member Byomakesh Ray accused the government of allowing police stations to function under political pressure, while Congress Legislature Party leader Rama Chandra Kadam expressed particular concern over crimes against tribal, Dalit, and backward caste women.
BJP member Babu Singh defended the government's record, noting that influential persons are now being prosecuted for criminal activities, which he claimed was not possible under the previous BJD administration.
The legislative session concluded with the passage of first supplementary grants for the Home and General Administration departments, providing the necessary resources for continued law enforcement efforts.
Chief Minister Majhi's strong stance reflects his administration's commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring that justice is served without political interference, a principle that resonates with traditional governance values and institutional integrity.