Odisha government begins investigation into Pandian helicopter incident during BJD regime

VK Pandian, a close aide of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. File | Video screenshot: PTI

The ruling BJP in Odisha has launched an investigation VK Pandian, a close aide of former chief minister Naveen Patnaik, was suspected of using government helicopters extensively exist BJD regimeA minister said.

Mr. Pandian announced his retirement from politics After the BJD’s defeat in the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, the party was accused of “indiscriminately” using government helicopters to conduct grievance hearings at people’s doorsteps.

Odisha’s commerce and transport minister, Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, said the state government was investigating “the extensive use of helicopters by Mr. Pandian,” an Indian Administrative Service officer who retired in 2000 and served as Mr. Patnaik’s personal secretary.

“If anyone misused the state exchequer, there would definitely be punishment. Questions have been raised about Pandian’s frequent helicopter travels through the state between February 2020 and December 2023,” Mr. Yena said.

Mr. Pandian in 2023 According to data provided by state BJP leaders, they visited 190 places in all 30 districts of Odisha for grievance hearings.

The previous BJD government claimed that Mr. Pandian collected 57,442 petitions during the session, of which 43,536 issues were resolved. However, the government did not reveal the amount spent on the helicopter trip.

Odisha Law, Excise and Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said that during this period, “450 helipads” were constructed across Odisha so that the helicopter used by Mr. Pandian could land easily.

He said it was estimated that each helipad would cost around INR 3 lakh to construct.

“We will conduct a serious investigation into who gave permission for the helipad and how the fee was paid. We will take strict action against those involved in the illegal construction,” Mr Harichandan said.

Meanwhile, BJD leader Sambit Routray defended Mr. Pandian’s use of the helicopter, saying he was touring the state holding public hearings on behalf of the chief minister.

“The BJP has been making a scene over an insignificant issue since it came to power in the state,” Mr. Ruteria asserted.

Congress leader and former chief secretary Bijay Patnaik also called for a thorough investigation into Mr. Pandian’s use of a helicopter.