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Bhubaneswar, Nov 14 (IANS) Amid imminent defeat in the Nuapada bypoll in Odisha, the opposition Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misusing money and government machinery to woo voters in their favour.
Speaking to media persons, senior BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra alleged that misuse of government machinery, indifference of Election Commission of India observers towards violations of various election codes – especially during the 48-hour silence period – and the combined influence of the ‘triple engine government’ of Odisha, Chhattisgarh and the Central government contributed to the victory of BJP candidate Jai Dholakia in the Nuapada bypoll.
Mishra once again expressed concern over the ‘abnormal’ increase in voting on November 11 and hinted at possible voting rigging. He claimed that more than 91 per cent voting at about 41 booths and more than 83 per cent voting at about 50 polling stations indicates possible manipulation which requires a thorough investigation.
It is noteworthy that BJD vice president Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak had earlier alleged that according to election officials, 75 percent voting had taken place till 5 pm on the polling day. However, later reports indicated that this figure had increased to 83.5 percent. He said that although high voting percentage is generally a positive sign for democracy, the addition of more than 8 per cent of votes after the closing time raises serious doubts.
Meanwhile, Congress candidate and tribal leader Ghasiram Majhi also alleged that massive distribution of funds in the constituency led to his defeat. Majhi alleged, “Personality has no role; money always works in elections. I have done a lot. Being a member of tribal or OBC community before money means nothing. Voters were sold in Nuapada constituency.”
He further expressed dissatisfaction over not receiving any support from the central leadership of the Indian National Congress, saying that top party leaders neither campaigned for him nor provided any financial support.
–IANS
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