Ex-Chhattisgarh Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma Shifts to Odisha’s Malkangiri After SC Order

Bhubaneswar, Feb 8: Reclamation Colony in Odisha’s Malkangiri district has become the temporary residence of former Chhattisgarh excise minister and senior Congress leader Kawasi Lakhma, following a directive from the Supreme Court in connection with two alleged liquor scam cases.

The apex court, while granting bail to the five-time tribal legislator from the Konta Assembly constituency in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, ordered him to stay outside the state during the pendency of the investigation. In compliance with the directive, Lakhma moved to neighbouring Odisha and took up residence in Malkangiri, which shares a border with his home constituency.

On his arrival in Malkangiri on Saturday, Lakhma was accorded a warm reception by Congress leaders and party workers. Several senior leaders were present to welcome him, terming the court order a temporary phase and expressing confidence in his innocence.

Party sources said Lakhma will continue to remain in Malkangiri until further directions from the court. They added that he is expected to stay engaged with party activities while fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Lakhma has been named in two cases related to the alleged liquor scam in Chhattisgarh, which is currently under investigation by central agencies. He has denied the allegations, maintaining that the cases are politically motivated.

Malkangiri district authorities said they are aware of Lakhma’s presence in the area and will act in accordance with any legal or administrative requirements as and when necessary.