Political Storm in Odisha as Law Minister’s Statement on Ratna Bhandar Key Sparks Outrage

Bhubaneswar: The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress continue to slam the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) over Law Minister Jagannath Saraka’s remarks regarding the ongoing Ratna Bhandar crucial issue, which has heated up the political climate in Odisha.

Senior BJP leader Bijoy Mohapatra expressed his dismay over the Law Minister’s statement. He pointed out that a committee led by the current Chief Secretary, Pradeep Jena, who was the former Chief Administrator of SJTA (Shree Jagannath Temple Administration), had attempted to open the Ratna Bhandar as per the Orissa High Court’s direction. However, they were unable to open it and publicly announced that the key was missing. Subsequently, the district Collector stated that a duplicate key had been found. The state government also established a commission to investigate the matter. Mohapatra suggested that the Law Minister may not have been properly briefed or may be attempting to conceal something, further deepening the mystery.

Congress leader Tara Prasad Bahinipati criticized the Law Minister’s lack of knowledge regarding the Ratna Bhandar key. Bahinipati expressed his disappointment with the Minister’s statement and called for either a retraction or resignation. He also raised suspicions that the valuables from the Ratna Bhandar may have been taken out of the state.

Puri MP Pinaki Mishra refrained from commenting on the matter, stating that it is currently under the jurisdiction of the court. He assured that appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the court’s direction.

The ongoing debate over the Ratna Bhandar key issue has fueled tensions between political parties in Odisha. The statements made by leaders from the BJP, Congress, and BJD have further intensified the controversy. The matter remains under scrutiny by the court, and its outcome will shape the future course of action.