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Probe panel reserves order on Ghadei’s petition

CUTTACK: Justice P.K. Patra Commission of Enquiry probing into the Kalinga Nagar police firing incident on Friday reserved its order after completing hearing over a petition filed by State Finance Minister Prafulla Ghadei.

Mr. Ghadei in his petition had urged to recall a notice issued to him by the Commission under Section 8 (B) of the Commission of Enquiry Act. The Finance Minister was asked to appear in person or through an advocate and file affidavits or statements if any since about 19 persons in their affidavits had made certain allegations against him.

It was not Mr. Ghadei alone but several political leaders, including former minister and Congress leader Sarat Rout, CPI leader Mayadhar Naik and CPI (ML) leader Kshitish Biswal were issued similar notices. The Commission had clarified that since these leaders are likely to be prejudicially affected as their names figure in the affidavits of some persons, they should be present before the Commission to defend themselves. Mr. Ghadei’s counsel Ramakanta Mohapatra, however, argued before the Commission on Friday contesting that the notices were sent to his client in a mechanical manner without applying judicial mind.

“The Commission had not gone into the details of the allegations made against the petitioner and the petitioner was also not aware of any specific allegation,” the counsel argued urging the Commission to recall the notice issued to Mr. Ghadei.

It may be recalled here that High Court judge Justice A S Naidu, who was previously heading the Commission, had issued the notices to 15 persons, including Mr. Ghadei in July 2006. After hearing the state government counsel and other counsels appearing before the Commission, Justice Patra reserved its order. The Commission has, however, not given any indication as to when the order on Mr. Ghadei’s petition would be made public. The Commission would sit next after the puja vacation.

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