Robbery at Former Congress Chief’s Home

Bhubaneswar: A robbery at the residence of former Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President Niranjan Patnaik in Bhubaneswar has raised concerns over the law and order situation in Odisha. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government, alleging a complete failure in maintaining public safety.
The incident took place late Saturday night in a VIP colony of the state capital. According to reports, despite the presence of CCTVs, private security guards, and increased police patrolling ahead of Republic Day, the robber escaped with cash and jewelry worth an estimated ₹50 lakh.
Taking to its official X handle, the BJD remarked, “The robbery at senior politician Niranjan Patnaik’s house highlights the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. If such an incident can occur in a secured VIP area, it raises serious concerns about the safety of common citizens.”
The party further accused the BJP government of incompetence, citing a series of incidents that have allegedly undermined public safety. Referring to a daylight murder in Bhubaneswar during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the BJD questioned the government’s ability to protect citizens.
With the Prime Minister scheduled to attend the Utkarsh Odisha-Make in Odisha Conclave on January 28, the BJD stated, “The people of Odisha did not vote for a government that fails to ensure their security. Who will the common people trust now?”
Meanwhile, the Commissionerate Police has launched an investigation into the robbery, forming special teams, including scientific experts, to solve the case.