Reclamation Colony in Odisha’s Malkangiri district has been established as the temporary residence for former Chhattisgarh Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma.
According to Congress leaders, this move follows a Supreme Court directive requiring him to remain outside his home state in relation to two ongoing investigations into alleged liquor scams.
While granting bail to the five-time tribal legislator, who represents the Konta constituency in Bastar, the Supreme Court directed him to reside outside of Chhattisgarh during the pendency of the investigation.
Upon his arrival in Malkangiri on Saturday, the Konta MLA was greeted with an enthusiastic reception from local Congress leaders and party supporters.
District Congress president Srinivas Rao informed that a house has been rented for Lakhma in Reclamation Colony to accommodate his stay.
“In accordance with the apex court’s direction, I chose Malkangiri to stay during the period because the language, tradition, culture, and food are similar to those in the Bastar area in Chhattisgarh,” he told local newsmen in Malkangiri.
Lakhma noted his long-standing connection to the Odisha district, mentioning that he frequently visited for elections and other engagements.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the community, stating he would continue his advocacy for the rights of poor tribals.
“If he wanted, he could have gone to any other state. But, he selected Malkangiri to stay in compliance with the Supreme Court’s order. We are very happy to host Lakhma in Malkangiri,” said Rao.
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court granted interim bail to Lakhma in two alleged liquor scam cases lodged by the Enforcement Directorate and the state police separately. He was arrested by the ED on January 15, 2025, and he has been in jail under judicial custody since then. The Congress leader was released from the Raipur Central Jail on February 4.
