Political tensions rise ahead of bypoll as BJP, BJD trade charges

As the Nov 11 by-election in Nuapada approaches, political tensions between BJP and BJD have escalated, with both parties intensifying their campaigns and trading serious allegations.In a dramatic turn, BJP accused senior BJD leaders Pranab Prakash Das and Khariar MLA Adhiraj Panigrahi of assaulting and threatening a scheduled caste youth, Jitu Adabonga, a BJP supporter. The incident allegedly took place on Oct 30 at Komna, where Jitu was reportedly lured and then attacked for his political affiliation. A police case was registered under multiple sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, though no arrests have been made yet.A BJP delegation led by state vice-president Jatin Mohanty met the chief electoral officer demanding immediate action and arrest of the accused. The delegation included MP Anita Subhadarshini, spokespersons Dilip Mallik and Truptimayee Makaddam.BJD has refuted the allegations and instead accused BJP of misusing administrative machinery and violating the model code of conduct. The party claims BJP leaders, including candidate Jay Dholakia, have used govt property for campaigning.BJD leaders have also raised concerns over raids conducted at the residence of senior leader Pritiranjan Gharai, alleging political bias and intimidation by local authorities. A formal complaint has been submitted to the chief electoral officer.The BJP, in the meantime, organised a “New Voters’ Conference” campaign in Nuapada, led by Yuva Morcha state president Abhilash Panda. The event aimed to engage first-time voters with discussions on BJP’s governance and schemes like Agniveer.Senior leaders, including Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra and Rajya Sabha member Sujit Kumar addressed the gathering. “The youths are the voice of the nation and they are in favour of development,” the BJP leaders said.Meanwhile, the BJD is leveraging community support, notably from the Yadav Mahasabha. During a recent assembly in Komna, prominent Yadav leaders expressed unwavering support for BJD candidate Snehangini Chhuria.The BJD cited former CM Naveen Patnaik’s inclusive governance and contributions to the Yadav community. The meeting was attended by former minister Devi Prasad Mishra and other influential figures from the region.The by-election, necessitated by the death of sitting MLA Rajendra Dholakia, has become a prestige battle. His son, Jay Dholakia, is contesting on a BJP ticket, while the BJD has fielded former minister Snehangini Chhuria. Congress has nominated tribal leader Ghasiram Majhi, making it a triangular contest with deep local and emotional stakes.