Bhubaneswar: BJP Mahila Morcha intensified its agitation against Agriculture Minister Pradeep Maharathy for allegedly making derogatory remarks against women. The unit organised protests and demonstrations across the state today.
The Balasore unit of BJP Mahila Morcha burnt the effigy of the minister at Phandi Chhak and demanded his resignation. The members alleged that such statements have hurt the sentiments of women.
Another demonstration against the minister was organized at Salepur, Cuttack. BJP Mahila Morcha members burnt the effigy of the minister at Kuanpala Bus Terminal.
The members of BJP Mahila Morcha shouted slogans and staged demonstration in Bhubaneswar as well. They even burnt posters of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Agriculture Minister Pradeep Maharathy and criticized the government.
“We are requesting the minister on behalf of the BJP to take back his statements, apologize and resign from his post,” member of State BJP Mahila Morcha, Subashini Prusty said.
On the other hand, the ruling-BJD denied the allegations against the minister.
Leader of Biju Mahila Janata Dal, Pramila Mallick said “BJP is not finding any issue to protest against the Naveen Patnaik-government. They have taken up a false issue and have started agitation. People of the state have understood this and will give a befitting reply to them.”
Prasanta Patnaik