BJD Politician Faces Legal Heat for Controversial Social Media Posts
Cyber crime police in Bhubaneswar have initiated legal proceedings against Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Manmath Kumar Routray following allegations of making highly objectionable comments targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The case, registered on Thursday, stems from incidents that occurred during the recent Nuapada by-election campaign.
Formal Complaint and Viral Video Spark Investigation
The legal machinery was set in motion when the BJP's legal cell submitted a formal complaint on November 11 at the cyber police station in Bhubaneswar. The complaint accused Routray of circulating defamatory and misleading content across social media platforms with the apparent intention of damaging the reputation of both national and state leadership.
During the heated Nuapada campaign, a controversial video surfaced showing Routray using explicit language against PM Modi and CM Majhi while standing in proximity to their election posters. This video content rapidly gained traction across digital platforms, drawing widespread condemnation from political circles and the public alike.
Legal Charges and Police Action
Law enforcement authorities have invoked multiple sections against the BJD leader under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Information Technology Act. The specific charges include:
BNS Section 294(2) - dealing with display of obscene content in electronic form
BNS Section 296 - pertaining to obscene acts
BNS Section 353(2) - covering statements conducing to public mischief
BNS Section 356(2) - addressing defamation
IT Act Section 67 - relating to publishing obscene material in electronic form
A senior police officer confirmed that Routray will be summoned for detailed questioning in the coming days. However, the officer remained non-committal when questioned about the possibility of the politician's arrest, stating that investigative procedures would determine future actions.
Political Reactions and Routray's Defense
The case has triggered strong reactions from political quarters. BJP's Ekamra-Bhubaneswar legislator Babu Singh demanded stringent action against Routray, emphasizing that both the Prime Minister and Chief Minister hold constitutional offices that command respect regardless of political differences.
Meanwhile, Routray has vowed to contest the charges legally. The BJD leader, who unsuccessfully contested the Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha seat on a party ticket in the 2024 general elections, argued that similar standards should apply to all political figures. He pointed out that both PM Modi and CM Majhi have made controversial remarks on various occasions without facing legal consequences.
The case highlights the increasingly tense political atmosphere in Odisha and raises important questions about the boundaries of political discourse in the digital age. As the legal process unfolds, all eyes remain on how this high-profile case will impact political campaigning norms and cyber behavior standards in Indian politics.
