Odisha Minister's PSO Piggyback Video Sparks Political Storm! BJD and Congress Attack BJP Government

Odisha's political atmosphere has witnessed a fresh controversy after a video showing Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik being carried on the back of his Personal Security Officer during a visit to a disaster-affected area in Kandhamal district circulated on social media.

The footage quickly attracted political attention, with opposition parties Biju Janata Dal and Congress criticising the minister's conduct.

The controversy has developed into a broader debate about the treatment of security personnel, the conduct expected from elected representatives and the government's response to people affected by floods and landslides.

The BJP has rejected the opposition's criticism, describing the incident as an attempt to turn a non-issue into a political controversy.

What Does the Viral Video Show?

The controversy began after a purported video showing Rabi Narayan Naik riding on the back of a man believed to be his Personal Security Officer circulated online.

The footage was reportedly recorded during the minister's visit to a disaster-affected area in Kandhamal.

The road conditions were difficult, with slippery and muddy sections creating problems for people travelling through the area.

The video was shared on social media by BJD Rajya Sabha member Sulata Deo.

It quickly attracted attention and triggered criticism from opposition leaders.

BJD Launches Sharp Attack on the Minister

The Biju Janata Dal strongly criticised the incident.

BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty described the visuals as disturbing and questioned the dignity of the security personnel involved.

The party argued that government officials and elected representatives should demonstrate respect towards the people working under them.

BJD leaders also attempted to connect the controversy with wider concerns about administrative coordination and disaster management.

Congress Also Targets the BJP Government

Congress leaders also joined the criticism.

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee president Bhakta Charan Das described the incident as inappropriate and questioned the minister's conduct.

He alleged that the minister had been carried to avoid getting his shoes dirty while visiting the affected area.

Congress argued that the incident reflected insensitivity towards security personnel and residents who were dealing with the consequences of the disaster.

The party also connected the controversy with the hardships experienced by people in Ganjam, Gajapati and Kandhamal.

Minister's Office Gives Its Explanation

The minister's office rejected the allegations that Naik had acted disrespectfully towards his security officer.

According to the explanation reported by the media, the minister had suffered a leg injury and his leg was bandaged.

The office said that he had walked along much of the route before accepting assistance from the PSO to protect the injured leg.

It also maintained that the minister had visited the affected area despite his physical discomfort.

Is This a Public Image Problem for the BJP?

For the BJP, the controversy creates an image-related challenge.

Political parties often use disaster-site visits to demonstrate their connection with affected communities.

Such visits can help officials understand local problems, inspect damaged infrastructure and coordinate relief efforts.

BJD and BJP: Another Round of Political Confrontation

The incident has provided the BJD with another opportunity to challenge the ruling government.

Since losing power in Odisha, the BJD has sought to strengthen its opposition role by raising issues connected with governance, public welfare and administrative performance.

The BJP, meanwhile, has attempted to defend its record and counter allegations made by the previous ruling party.

Congress has also used the incident to position itself as an active opposition voice.

What Happens Next?

The political controversy may continue as opposition leaders demand greater accountability and the BJP defends the minister.

The government will also face questions about its relief and rehabilitation measures in the affected districts.

The minister's explanation regarding his injury is an important part of the story, but the broader debate about the dignity of security personnel and the conduct of public representatives is likely to continue.

Conclusion

The viral video involving Odisha Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik has triggered a fresh confrontation between the BJP government and opposition parties.

BJD and Congress have criticised the incident, questioning the treatment of the minister's PSO and connecting it with wider concerns about administrative accountability.

The minister's office has defended the action by citing his injured and bandaged leg, while the BJP has rejected the opposition's criticism.

The incident has therefore become more than a discussion about a viral video. It has developed into a debate about leadership, public conduct and the responsibilities of government during disaster situations.