Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Bhubaneswar, Jan 15: 

Hours after a truck loaded with blankets were intercepted by BJP workers at Bhalpada village of Nabarangpur district, Odisha unit of the party today approached State Election Commission (SEC) citing violation of model code of conduct against Biju Janata Dal.

Blanket truck stopped by BJP workers

In their petition, BJP leaders demanded seizure of the truck carrying the blankets and arrest of Umerkote BJD MLA ‎Subash Gond – who allegedly procured the blankets for distribution during polls.

Speaking to reporters, Odisha BJP Vice President Samir Mohanty said that the blankets had been ordered by Gond.

“Umerkote MLA ‎Subash Gond had ordered a truckload of blankets from Raipur. Villagers caught them red-handed while the blankets were being unloaded at one of his relative’s house,” said Mohanty.

The cops have detained the truck and a man after BJP workers stopped the vehicle acting on a tip-off from villagers.

BJD, however, refuted the allegations.

“The allegations are baseless. There is no truth in it. BJP leaders are doing so to stay in news. Let them approach the SEC. The truth will come out,” said BJD MLA and Transport Minister Ramesh Majhi.