Rourkela MLA Dilip Ray likely to quit BJP

ONI Bureau: Expressing his displeasure over the way he was “treated” in the party, BJP MLA from Rourkela, Dilip Ray has decided to quit as an MLA and from the primary membership of the party within a few days. Dilip Ray, who had aired his voice several times in the past over alleged central negligence for construction of a second bridge on the Brahmani River and upgradation of Ispat General Hospital (IGH) into Super Specialty Hospital in Rourkela, has claimed that he was humiliated in the party.

Ray further alleged that although he met both Union Ministers from Odisha several times and other officials to press the demands, things did not change. “It seems that the projects are getting delayed because of me. If so, I am ready to make sacrifice in people’s interest,” he added.

Senior BJP leader Bijoy Mohapatra, who has been staying away from the party affairs for a long time, has supported Dilip Ray, saying “everyone in the party as well as the state, is aware of the issues raised by Ray. If he feels humiliated being an MLA, he has every right to take a political decision”.

However, BJP has rejected all allegations levelled by Dilip Ray. BJP Spokesperson Golak Mohapatra said, “The UPA Govt delayed the project for 10 years. But, BJP Govt has already started Brahmani bridge work along with the IGH”. He also clarified that BJP has not humiliated anyone.

According to reports, Bijoy Mohapatra and Dilip Ray are meeting on November 28 to discuss their future course of action. While some reports claimed that they could join the BJD, Congress still remains an option for both of them, it is believed.