• Concerns raised over lawlessness

• Direct encounter orders issued

Bhubaneswar, May 19, 2026: A fierce controversy has erupted in the state following a brutal public assault on a youth and a woman on a busy street in Brahmapur. Leader of the Opposition, Naveen Patnaik, has launched a scathing attack on the state government over this inhumane incident. He alleged that under BJP rule, “goonda raj” (hooliganism) is on the rise and the government is providing protection to criminals. Asserting that such barbaric acts are bringing shame to Odisha nationwide, he questioned the efficacy of the police administration.In response, BJP MLA Saroj Padhi has completely rejected these allegations. He clarified that the incident was a personal matter and stated that time is needed to rectify the criminal culture fostered during the BJD’s 25-year tenure. He emphasized that the current government takes immediate action whenever a crime occurs. He further added that to maintain law and order, police have been directed to act strictly, and the DGP has already made it clear that criminals will face direct encounters.