BJP begins drive for crime-free politics

The BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) in Odisha launched a statewide satyagraha (a protest or strike) against what they say is the criminalization of politics in the state under the BJD (Biju Janata Dal). The BJP MLAs submitted a memorandum to the Governor demanding a special session of the Assembly to discuss the issue and "the worsening law and order." Samir Mohanty, the BJP President in Odisha, said while BJD leaders holding positions of power are involved in crimes against women, such as rape and atrocities, their leadership is silent providing them protection. The state BJP chief said it is shameful that Odisha is among the top five states in crimes against women, though the CM in Puri said his party and the government give utmost priority to women's empowerment. Acharya Prasanna, a senior BJD leader, said the BJP is trying to mislead people by saying that BJD leaders are involved in crimes against women. BJP National President JP Nadda will address a public meeting in Banapur of Puri district on Wednesday and another meeting at Tumudibandh in Kandhamal district on Thursday.