Protests mar the launch of 24-hr Oriya DD channel

Protests mar the launch of 24-hr Oriya DD channel
EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE

BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 2: Information and Broadcasting Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday said that the reach of Doordarshan will go up to 90 per cent once the three low power transmitters (LPTs) at Balasore, Chittika and Tusura and the high power transmitter (HPT) at Berhampur are completely installed.

She was addressing the inaugural function of the 24-hour Oriya Doordarshan Channel (DD 6), which became a political battlefield for some of the state’s leaders after Swaraj was greeted with black flags by activists of the Congress’ students wing. Orissa CM Naveen Patnaik was also present on the occasion.The function, which also marked the 52nd Utkal Divas, the foundation day of the state, was marred by vituperative tirades by the leaders after Congress workers flashed black flags at the Union minister and shouted ‘‘Sushma Swaraj go back’’. The agitators were protesting against corruption in the NDA Government which was recently exposed by Tehelka.com.

Two protestors were arrested by the police before being heckled by BJP supporters. State Revenue Minister Biswabhusan Harichandan, BJP state chief Manmohan Samal and MP Prasanna Patsani went on the offensive against the demonstration, even as the proceedings were telecast live.