BJP workers vandalise residence of CM Naveen Patnaik's secretary in Odisha

BHUBANESWAR: Some Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers on Saturday barged into Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik`s private secretary, V.K. Pandian`s, residence and vandalised it.

Accusing the IAS officer of working for the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the irate BJP workers waving saffron-green flags stormed into the official residence and broke flower pots, damaged a few vehicles parked there and pelted stones.

The protesters also hurled cow dung at the government accommodation.

"Pandian is acting like a `super Chief Minister`. His favouritism towards the BJD is not acceptable. 

"We will continue to protest against the bureaucrat, who is working against the interest of the state," said BJP Vice President Sameer Mohanty.

BJD spokesperson Pratap Deb condemned the incident.

"The incident is an unfortunate one and it depicts the mentality of top BJP leaders. Such kind of protests is unacceptable in a democracy. Police should take action against those involved in the incident," said Deb.

Police Commissioner Y.B. Khurania said strong action would be taken against the persons involved in the incident.

"This is a serious matter. Stringent action will be taken against them. We have already arrested some while others involved would be arrested soon," he said.

Pandian has been under attack from BJD leaders, as well. Several BJD leaders, including suspended MP Baijayant Panda have attacked the Chief Minister`s private secretary for his interference in party politics.

The BJP has also moved the State Election Commission seeking his removal accusing him of meddling in politics ahead of the bypoll to Bijepur Assembly constituency scheduled on February 24.