CM looking into controversy regarding MP

Bhubaneswar, Jan 25 (PTI) Orissa Chief Minister NaveenPatnaik today said he was looking into the matter relating tothe controversy between Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahatab andthe police.

Mahtab had allegedly physically assaulted a citypoliceman on duty recently at Netaji Museum in Cuttack, acharge the ruling party MP had denied.

Meanwhile, the Orissa Police Association (OPA) haddemanded exemplary action against the editor-turnedpolitician on allegation of beating up a policeman on duty.

A delegation of the OPA today met the Director Generalof Police (DGP) Manmohan Praharaj and demanded action againstthe MP accusing him of assaulting the policeman on duty.

The OPA memebers had also met the Home Secretary U NBehera yesterday seeking action against the "erring" MP. "Thelaw will take its own course in this case also," Behera toldreporters.

The police in Cuttack had also registered a caseagainst the MP and was investigating the matter, a seniorpoliceman said adding that due procedure were being followedin the matter.

However, there was resentment in the rank and file ofthe state police over the delay in initiating action againstthe ruling party MP. The police officers have also threatnedto boycot VIP duty if action was not taken against the MP. PTIAAM Cr