BJD should clarify on understanding with BJP on CBI probe: CPI

The party was voicing its concern over a perception that CBI probe into chitfund scam in Odisha had slowed down

Voicing concern over a perception that CBI probe into chitfund scam in Odisha had slowed down, the CPI today said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik should clarify if there was any tacit understanding between BJD and BJP in this regard.

"There is a perception that CPI investigation into chitfund scam in Odisha has become very slow. People feel there may be a subtle, tacit understanding between BJD and BJP on the issue and the chief minister should explain," CPI national secretary D Raja told reporters here.

Stating that some ruling BJD leaders were involved in chitfund scam cases, he said CBI must play a proactive role in pursuing the matter and investigate into the scam in an expeditious and fair manner.

Raja said concrete steps should be taken to ensure justice to the poor people who were duped of their hard-earned money by unscrupulous ponzi scheme companies.

"We believe in the rule of law. People should get justice and law should take its course," he said.

Slamming Odisha Government on Posco steel project issue, Raja demanded immediate steps for withdrawing criminal cases slapped against CPI people opposing the project.

Stating that CPI was among the first to oppose the proposed Posco project, he said several partymen are facing criminal cases.

"The Government should realise that we have every right to express our views and oppose," he said, adding, the chief minister should show political maturity and withdraw cases against these CPI people.