Controversy Erupts Over BJP MLA's Remarks

BJP MLA Santosh Khatua has come under severe criticism after allegedly making derogatory remarks against prominent BJD leader Lekhashree Samantasinghar, sparking widespread outrage and calls for an apology from Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and the BJP.

The controversy began when Samantasinghar accused Khatua of involvement in elephant poaching, referring to him as a 'thief' and 'dacoit' during a press conference. Khatua's retaliatory comments were widely condemned, though attempts to contact him were unsuccessful as his phone remained switched off.

In response, the BJP defended Khatua, with spokesperson Anil Biswal dismissing the allegations as a conspiracy. Meanwhile, BJD's Pramila Mallik decried the remarks as an affront to all women and demanded a public apology from the BJP.

(With inputs from agencies.)