Odisha gangster Tito’s aide gets key post in BJD

Jagatsinghpur: The internal conflict within the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) took center stage, following the party’s decision to appoint Jyotikant Parida, a criminal and key associate of gangster Tito, as the vice-president of BJD for Jagatsinghpur district.

Paradip MLA Sambit Routray expressed his dissatisfaction over the selection of Jyotikant Parida alias Bapu Parida, who is involved in criminal cases, for the prominent post in the party’s district unit.

Pointing finger at former Jagatsinghpur BJD president Prashant Muduli, who is the Government Chief Whip in Assembly, Routray said, “We were told to submit the list of party workers from all assembly constituencies in the district for selection of top positions in the district unit of the BJD. I provided the list. But, I do not know how Bapu Parida’s name came in the list for the party’s important position.”

He alleged Muduli of recommending Bapu Parida’s name for the vice president post of the district.

“How was Bapu Parida’s name included in the list, the former district president Prashant Muduli might have been aware of it as he had added his name recommending for the appointment to the vice president post. BJD is a huge family comprising of many workers including Tito’s assistance. There is not a big deal. But, I have not recommended his name for any post in the party,” the son of former minister Damodar Rout said adding, “The vice president position is a senior post and appointment should be made accordingly. Ultimately, our high command is supreme to take final call.”

Notably, Bapu Parida is a key aide to dreaded gangster Tito. He was arrested in 2018 for his links with Tito and he was involved in dozens of cases including murder and other crimes.