Senior BJD leader and Minister for Health Damodar Rout was in trouble on Sunday when Dhenkanal Sub-Collector Anil Kumar Patnaik objected to use of red light atop his vehicle while coming to address an election meeting at Alasuahat ground here.
On being informed about the use of red light by Rout, the Sub-Collector, who is the election officer for Dhenkanal Municipality, rushed to the meeting ground. After the meeting was over, Patnaik raised his objection to use of red light on vehicle during election campaign before the Minister. In his reply, Rout got angry and told Patnaik not to teach him election code of conduct and used some words not relevant to the objection in presence of the crowd.
The Sub-Collector told this paper that he has done his duty and will report the matter to the State election authorities. Patnaik also expressed his displeasure over the Minister’s behaviour at a public meeting.
Addressing the gathering in Ward-22, Rout spoke about achievements of BJD-led government. MLAs Nabin Nanda and district president of the party Nrushing Sahoo were present.