TNI Bureau: The opposition parties in Odisha intensified their attack on the state government over the tragic death of News7 journalist Sheela Patnaik, alleging negligence, lack of accountability and insensitivity by those in power.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) had earlier stated that negligence on the part of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Odisha Works Department was responsible for the fatal road accident. The issue resurfaced after Odisha’s Transport Minister, speaking at a government programme on Saturday, blamed his cabinet colleague, the Works Minister, for the irresponsibility of the Works Department in keeping sand on a national highway. According to the Transport Minister, the dumped sand led to the accident that claimed the lives of journalist Sheela Patnaik and another woman.

Reacting to the statement, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty said the remark amounted to an admission of serious lapses within the system. He said that while responsibility was being acknowledged, Bibhuti Jena should also openly acknowledge the widespread issue of illegal sand mining across Odisha, which he described as a major public safety concern.

Meanwhile, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das strongly criticised BJP ministers Prithiviraj Harichandan, Bibhuti Jena and Nityananda Gond for what he termed as highly insensitive and shameful behaviour over the journalist’s death.

In a statement, Das alleged that the ministers laughed over the incident, calling it a disturbing display of lack of humanity and accountability in public life. He said such conduct from those holding constitutional positions was unacceptable and deeply hurtful, and demanded greater responsibility and compassion from the ruling leadership.