Principal's murder: BJP and Congress approach guv seeking Mishra's ouster

BHUBANESWAR: The BJP and the Congress on Wednesday submitted separate memorandums to governor Ganeshi Lal seeking the removal of minister of state for home Dibya Shankar Mishra for his close proximity to Gobinda Sahu, prime accused in the murder of school principal Mamita Meher. Claiming there can't be a fair probe given Mishra's reach and influence, the two parties demanded a CBI probe into the murder.
Addressing a news conference here, state BJP president Samir Mohanty said police won't be able to carry out an impartial probe if Mishra continues to remain minister - that too holding the portfolio of home - given his closeness to Sahu. He also sought Mishra's arrest, alleging his collusion in the crime. Mohanty led a BJP delegation to governor Ganeshi Lal to press for Mishra's ouster.
The BJP Mahila Morcha hurled eggs at Mishra's residence at Bhawanipatna in Kalahandi and staged demonstration in Bhubaneswar.
The Congress also submitted a memorandum to the governor seeking Mishra's removal and a CBI probe into the murder under supervision of the Supreme Court. Congress youth wing staged demonstration near chief minister Naveen Patnaik's house pressing for Mishra's ouster. The opposition parties also held protests in many other parts of the state such as Balangir, Puri, Cuttack and Berhampur.
The 23-year-old school principal, a native of Balangir district, went missing on October 8. Police on Wednesday said Sahu murdered her the same day because she had proof of his extra-marital affairs. Police had arrested Sahu, president of the school where she worked, on Tuesday.
The school at Mahaling village, where Mamita worked, is part of Junagarh assembly seat from where Mishra, a pilot-turned politician, has been elected for a second time. Mishra also holds the portfolios of energy, MSME and industries.
The BJD on its part maintained that law will take its own course. The BJD accused the opposition of politicising the 'sensitive' issue. "Action will be taken against anyone found involved in the crime. Will the minister's resignation resolve the matter?" asked government chief whip Pramila Mallik while responding to the opposition criticism. Mishra was yet to respond despite repeated calls.
The Odisha State Commission for Women has, meanwhile, sought a report from the Kalahandi SP on the incident.