JEYPORE: Rural electrification works are in full swing in Jeypore block. Call it ignorance of the election Code of Conduct or a deliberate act, these works are somewhere aimed at fetching votes. Sources said Rajiv Gandhi Gramya Kutir Jyoti programme for BPL families in different villages under Jeypore block was allotted a year back but it could not materialise for unknown reasons. Now that the panchayat elections have come, the contractors are expediting the works by getting poles and conductors erected in Amabaguda and Dhanpur panchayats in Jeypore block. Social activists and political party workers have raised the issue with officials concerned but in vain.
Southco officials clarified that they have little information regarding the electrification programmes, while the Jeypore BDO RS Padhi said the matter did not concern his office. Locals have demanded an inquiry by the State Election Commission. Eye-catching development works ahead of elections amount to violation of poll code.
NANDA CAMPAIGNS: The district BJD started its poll campaign with the MLA Rabi Narayan Nanda taking out a mega roadshow on Wednesday.
Nanda attended a number of meetings in Garudaguda, Jiuna, Kaligama, Umuri and Amabaguda villages and urged villagers to vote for the BJD to power for development of the area. He also highlighted the welfare programmes initiated by the BJD Government. The Jeypore constituency is said to be a crucial area for both BJD and Congress which is being led by Taraprasad Bahinipati.