Odisha Finance Minister Prasanna Acharya has found himself in deep trouble after the State Election Commission (SEC) has taken note of his “threat speech” at an election rally in Bargarh. The SEC has issued a ‘show cause’ notice to the Minister and directed him to reply by November 23. A detailed report has also been sought from Bargarh Collector.

Whatever may be the answer of Mr.Acharya, who is also the Vice President of the ruling BJD, it is certain that he has crossed the ‘Laxman Rekha’ by opening threatening the voters in a public rally. Mr. Prasanna Acharya had warned the voters that unless they vote for the BJD, not a single pie will be given to their areas for development. His party cadres and leaders applauded him for the strong message, giving much joy to Acharya.

However, the joy and ecstasy remained short-lived after a video of that speech, was broadcast on some local news channels. As the senior BJD leaders are tight-lipped about the incident, the onus lies on the Election Commission to set the right precedent so that no politician dares to intimidate the voters in such a manner.