Bhubaneswar: Barricades installed outside ‘Naveen Niwas’, the residence of former Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik, may be removed after the Orissa High Court made strong observations over their alleged obstruction of a public road.
Following the court’s remarks, the state Works Department reportedly wrote to the Home Department seeking its views on the issue, official sources said.
The controversy relates to security barricades and a gate structure erected on Old Airport Road in Bhubaneswar, leading to allegations that “a government road was being used in a manner that hindered public movement and disrupted traffic.”
During the hearing of a petition, the High Court expressed displeasure over claims that the barricades were placed on public land and restricted access to commuters.
The Works Department has also sought opinions from the Commissionerate Police and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) on whether the barricades can be removed and whether any alternative security arrangement would be required.
The barricades were originally installed to provide security to Patnaik when he was serving as chief minister. They are located along the stretch connecting the airport road to Punama Gate, sources said.
No reaction was immediately available from Patnaik or officials at Naveen Niwas.