Odisha Chief Minister Declares End to Political Protection for Criminals
In a bold stance against crime and corruption, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has categorically declared that his BJP government provides no political protection to criminals, marking a clear departure from previous administrations' alleged practices.
Speaking during a heated Assembly debate on Home department grants, Majhi addressed mounting concerns over women's safety with characteristic directness. "The criminal involved in violence against women will not be forgiven for a moment. The culprit will be made a government guest and kept in jail," he stated emphatically.
Market-Friendly Governance Approach
This zero-tolerance policy reflects a broader commitment to transparent governance that foreign investors and business communities have long demanded. By eliminating political interference in criminal justice, the BJP administration is creating the stable, predictable environment essential for economic growth.
The Chief Minister's approach contrasts sharply with the interventionist tendencies of previous governments. Rather than protecting cronies or political allies, Majhi emphasized swift justice through professional police work. "I want to assure the people of the State that there will be no leniency towards criminals in Odisha," he declared.
Opposition Criticism Lacks Substance
Opposition parties BJD and Congress attempted to score political points by citing recent criminal cases, including incidents in Ganjam and Puri districts. However, their criticism rings hollow when examined against actual government performance.
Majhi challenged critics directly: "Tell me just one such case of violence against women, in which the accused was given political protection or not intentionally arrested." The opposition's inability to provide concrete examples of government interference speaks volumes.
Proven Results Through Professional Policing
The administration's commitment to professional law enforcement has yielded impressive results. A recent POCSO Act case at Chandaka police station was resolved within 37 days, resulting in a 20-year rigorous imprisonment sentence plus fine for the accused.
This efficiency demonstrates how removing political interference allows law enforcement to function properly. BJP member Babu Singh noted that "many influential persons are booked in criminal cases which was not possible during the previous BJD government."
Clear Message to Criminal Elements
The Chief Minister's message was unambiguous: "The political protection licence that they had under the previous government has expired and there is no chance of its renewal." This represents exactly the kind of institutional reform that promotes genuine development.
By establishing clear rule of law without political favoritism, the Majhi administration is creating conditions for sustainable economic growth while protecting vulnerable populations. This approach should serve as a model for other states struggling with the legacy of interventionist governance.
The Assembly subsequently passed supplementary grants for Home and General Administration departments, providing the resources necessary to maintain this professional approach to law enforcement.